Law of Superposition

Front

What is the Law of Superposition?

Back

The Law of Superposition states that in any undisturbed sequence of rocks, the oldest layers are at the bottom and the youngest layers are at the top.

Front

What does it mean for a rock layer to be 'oldest'?

Back

An 'oldest' rock layer is the first layer that was deposited in a sequence, meaning it has been there the longest compared to other layers.

Front

How can you determine the relative ages of rock layers?

Back

You can determine the relative ages of rock layers by examining their position in a sequence, with lower layers being older than those above them.

Front

What is a fossil?

Back

A fossil is the preserved remains or traces of ancient organisms, often found in sedimentary rock.

Front

Which type of fossil is typically the oldest?

Back

Trilobites are often considered some of the oldest fossils found in rock layers.

Front

What is an intrusion in geology?

Back

An intrusion is a body of igneous rock that forms when magma pushes into existing rock layers and solidifies.

Front

What is a fault in geological terms?

Back

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

Front

What does 'relative dating' mean?

Back

Relative dating is the method of determining the age of a rock or fossil in relation to other rocks or fossils, rather than giving it an exact age.

Front

What is the significance of the order of rock layers?

Back

The order of rock layers helps geologists understand the history of the Earth and the sequence of geological events.

Front

What is a sedimentary rock?

Back

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