Relative Age of Rocks

Front

What is the principle of superposition?

Back

In horizontal sedimentary rock layers, the oldest layers are at the bottom and the youngest layers are at the top.

Front

What type of rock is formed from the cooling and solidification of magma or lava?

Back

Igneous rock.

Front

What type of rock is formed from the accumulation and compaction of mineral and organic particles?

Back

Sedimentary rock.

Front

What type of rock is formed from the alteration of existing rock through heat, pressure, or chemical processes?

Back

Metamorphic rock.

Front

What is an index fossil?

Back

A fossil that is used to define and identify a particular time period in the geological time scale.

Front

What can be concluded about the top layer of rock in an undisturbed sequence?

Back

The top layer is younger than the layers located farther down.

Front

In a geological cross-section, which layer is likely to be the oldest?

Back

The bottom layer.

Front

What is the significance of sedimentary rock layers in studying fossils?

Back

They often contain fossils that provide information about the Earth's history and past life forms.

Front

What does the term 'relative age' refer to in geology?

Back

The age of a rock layer compared to other layers, rather than an exact age.

Front

What is a fault in geological terms?

Back

A fracture or zone of fractures between two blocks of rock.