Stratigraphy

Front

What is an unconformity?

Back

A gap in rock layers due to erosion of a weak layer of rock.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS1-4

Front

Which layer is the oldest in a sequence of rock layers?

Back

The layer that is furthest down in the sequence.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS1-4

Front

What is the principle of lateral continuity?

Back

A principle that states that rock layers extend laterally in all directions until they thin out or encounter a barrier.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS1-4

NGSS.MS-ESS2-3

Front

What is stratigraphy?

Back

The study of the layers of rock.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS1-4

NGSS.MS-ESS2-3

Front

Which layer is the youngest in a sequence of rock layers?

Back

The layer that is closest to the surface.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS1-4

Front

What does the law of superposition state?

Back

In an undeformed sequence of sedimentary rocks, the oldest layers are at the bottom and the youngest layers are at the top.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS1-4

Front

What is the significance of fossils in stratigraphy?

Back

Fossils help to date rock layers and understand the environment in which they were formed.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS1-4

Front

How can erosion affect stratigraphy?

Back

Erosion can create unconformities by removing layers of rock, leading to gaps in the geological record.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS1-4

NGSS.MS-ESS2-2

Front

What is the difference between relative dating and absolute dating?

Back

Relative dating determines the sequence of events, while absolute dating provides a specific age for rock layers.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS1-4

Front

What is a sedimentary rock?

Back

A type of rock formed by the accumulation and compaction of mineral and organic particles.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-1