Geologic Time Scale Test

Front

What does the law of superposition state?

Back

In horizontal layers of sedimentary rock, the layer on top is the youngest and the layer below it is older.

Front

Why might a fish fossil be found in a desert?

Back

A long time ago, the desert was once a body of water, and over time, it became a desert.

Front

What can be said about the relative age of Layer N?

Back

Layer N is younger than Layer G but older than the intrusion.

Front

What does absolute age tell us about a rock layer or fossil?

Back

The 'exact' age of a fossil determined by radiometric dating.

Front

What is an intrusion in geology?

Back

A hardened layer of magma that has cooled and solidified beneath Earth's surface.

Front

What is the difference between relative age and absolute age?

Back

Relative age determines the order of events, while absolute age provides a specific age in years.

Front

What is radiometric dating?

Back

A method used to determine the age of rocks and fossils by measuring the decay of radioactive isotopes.

Front

What is a fossil?

Back

The preserved remains or traces of ancient organisms.

Front

What is sedimentary rock?

Back

Rock formed by the accumulation and compaction of mineral and organic particles.

Front

What is an unconformity?

Back

A gap in the geological record that represents a period of erosion or non-deposition.