Relative and Absolute Dating

Front

What is the law of superposition?

Back

In a sequence of sedimentary rock layers, the oldest layers are at the bottom and the younger layers are at the top.

Front

What does it mean if a rock layer is described as 'intrusive'?

Back

An intrusive rock layer is younger than the layers it cuts through because it formed from magma that cooled and solidified beneath the Earth's surface.

Front

How can you determine the relative age of rock layers?

Back

By using principles such as the law of superposition, cross-cutting relationships, and the principle of original horizontality.

Front

What is relative dating?

Back

Relative dating is a method used to determine the order of past events without determining their exact age.

Front

What is absolute dating?

Back

Absolute dating is a method used to determine the actual age of a rock or fossil, often through radiometric dating.

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 principle of original horizontality?

Back

This principle states that layers of sediment are originally deposited horizontally under the action of gravity.

Front

What is a geological intrusion?

Back

A geological intrusion occurs when magma pushes into existing rock formations and solidifies.

Front

What is a fault in geology?

Back

A fault is a fracture or zone of fractures between two blocks of rock, which can cause displacement.

Front

What is the significance of index fossils?

Back

Index fossils are used to define and identify specific time periods in the geological time scale.