Geologic Time, Virginia Geology

Front

What is Geologic Time?

Back

Geologic Time refers to the vast time scale used by geologists and paleontologists to describe the timing and relationships of events in Earth's history.

Front

What is a fossil?

Back

A fossil is the preserved remains or traces of a once-living organism, often found in sedimentary rock.

Front

What is the significance of the half-life in geology?

Back

Half-life is the time required for half of the radioactive atoms in a sample to decay, used to determine the age of rocks and fossils.

Front

What is carbonic acid?

Back

Carbonic acid is a weak acid formed when carbon dioxide dissolves in water, important in geological processes like weathering.

Front

What are trilobites?

Back

Trilobites are an extinct group of marine arthropods that existed during the Paleozoic era, known for their distinctive three-lobed body.

Front

What is the Valley and Ridge province?

Back

The Valley and Ridge province is a geological region in Virginia characterized by alternating valleys and ridges formed by folding and faulting.

Front

What is the Coastal Plain?

Back

The Coastal Plain is a flat, low-lying area along the Atlantic Ocean, consisting of sedimentary deposits.

Front

What is the Piedmont region?

Back

The Piedmont region is a hilly area located between the Coastal Plain and the Appalachian Mountains, known for its diverse geology.

Front

How do scientists determine the age of rocks?

Back

Scientists determine the age of rocks using methods like radiometric dating, which measures the decay of radioactive isotopes.

Front

What is sedimentary rock?

Back

Sedimentary rock is formed from the accumulation and compaction of mineral and organic particles, often containing fossils.