Understanding Geologic Time Assessment

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What does the Geologic Time Scale represent?

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The Geologic Time Scale represents major changes in flora (plants) and fauna (animals) over Earth's history.

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What is the Law of Superposition?

Back

The Law of Superposition states that newer rock layers form on top of already existing layers, meaning older layers are at the bottom.

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What is absolute age in geology?

Back

Absolute age is the actual age of a geological feature or fossil, measured in years.

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

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The oldest layer is the one at the bottom of the sequence.

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What is relative age?

Back

Relative age is the age of an object in relation to other objects.

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What does the Law of Inclusion state?

Back

The Law of Inclusion states that fragments of rock found within another rock are older than the rock that contains them.

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What is the significance of index fossils?

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Index fossils are fossils that show up in abundance in the same layer of Earth across many different regions, helping to determine the age of rock layers.

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What is the Law of Crosscutting?

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The Law of Crosscutting states that any feature that cuts across a sequence of rocks is younger than everything it cuts.

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How do scientists determine the relative age of rock layers?

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Scientists determine relative age by examining the position of rock layers and the fossils within them.

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What is a fossil?

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A fossil is the preserved remains or traces of ancient organisms.