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What is the Law of Superposition?

Back

The Law of Superposition states that in any undisturbed sequence of rocks, the oldest layers are at the bottom and the youngest layers are at the top.

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NGSS.MS-ESS1-4

Front

How can you determine the relative age of rock layers?

Back

Relative age can be determined by examining the order of rock layers, using the Law of Superposition, and identifying features such as faults and intrusions.

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NGSS.MS-ESS1-4

Front

What does it mean if a rock layer is described as 'younger' than another?

Back

A younger rock layer is one that was deposited after the older layer, meaning it is closer to the surface in an undisturbed sequence.

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NGSS.MS-ESS1-4

Front

What is a fault in geological terms?

Back

A fault is a fracture or zone of fractures between two blocks of rock, which can displace the layers on either side.

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What is the significance of identifying the oldest rock layer in a sequence?

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Identifying the oldest rock layer helps geologists understand the geological history and the sequence of events that have occurred over time.

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NGSS.MS-ESS1-4

Front

How does deposition relate to the Law of Superposition?

Back

Deposition refers to the process of laying down sediment, and according to the Law of Superposition, the layers deposited first are the oldest.

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NGSS.MS-ESS1-4

Front

What is the role of sedimentary rock layers in understanding Earth's history?

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Sedimentary rock layers provide a record of past environments, climate changes, and biological evolution, allowing geologists to reconstruct Earth's history.

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NGSS.MS-ESS1-4

Front

What is an unconformity in geology?

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An unconformity is a surface of contact between two groups of unconformable strata, indicating a gap in the geological record.

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NGSS.MS-ESS1-4

Front

How can cross-cutting relationships help determine the age of rock layers?

Back

Cross-cutting relationships state that a geological feature that cuts through another is younger than the feature it cuts.

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NGSS.MS-ESS1-4

Front

What is the difference between absolute age and relative age?

Back

Absolute age is the actual age of a rock or fossil, often determined by radiometric dating, while relative age is the age of a rock in relation to other rocks.