Unit 2 Rock dating (8.E.2.1)

The diagram below shows fossils and rock features. How does intrusion X compare to the ages of the other rock layers and fossils in this geologic column?

• Intrusion X is older than layers Y and Z.

• Intrusion X is younger than all the layers.

• Intrusion X is older than the clam and broadleaf fossils.

• Intrusion X is younger than the broadleaf and fern fossils.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS1-4

NGSS.MS-ESS2-3

The diagram shows a series of rock layers and fossils. Which statement is true?

• Layer W is older than intrusion X.

• Intrusion X is younger than layers Z and Y.

• The broadleaf fossil is older than the fern fossil.

• The clam fossil is younger than the reptile bone fossil.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS1-4

NGSS.MS-ESS2-3

Referring to the diagram of rock layers and fossils, which is younger than the clam fossil?

• Layer Z

• Broadleaf

• Intrusion X

• Reptile bone

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS1-4

NGSS.MS-ESS2-3

Scientists can use relative dating, absolute dating, or a combination of the two techniques to determine the age of a fossil. Which of the following could be determined using both methods?

• the difference in age between two fossils

• which of two fossils is the older

• a narrow age range for a fossil

• the exact age of a fossil

To calculate the relative age of rocks, geologists use the rate of radioactive decay of isotopes present in their samples. What is the term used for the original amount of the elemental isotopes being investigated?

• rare earth isotopes

• son isotopes

• daughter isotopes

• parent isotopes

Tags

NGSS.HS-PS1-8

A teacher gave students this diagram of rock layers. The teacher directed the students to determine the relative age of each rock layer based only on the information presented in the diagram. Which method can BEST be used by the students to determine the relative age of these layers?

• radiometric dating

• rock type evaluation

• the law of superposition

• principle of uniformitarianism

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS1-4

Use this geologic profile to answer the following question.

• The fossil at Point 3 is less common.

• The fossil at Point 3 is smaller.

• The fossil at Point 3 is older.

• The fossil at Point 3 is more complex.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS1-4

NGSS.MS-LS4-1

The radioactive isotope content of a rock can be used to identify which property of the rock?

• the total mass of the rock

• the rate at which the rock formed

• the types of fossils that the rock contains

• the amount of time passed since the rock formed

Tags

NGSS.HS-PS1-8

Which method would be BEST for scientists to use to determine the absolute age of a Precambrian igneous rock?

• index fossils

• law of superposition

• radiometric dating

• law of original horizontality

A geologist uncovered a fossil while digging in the side of a hill. He hypothesized that it was MOST likely from the end of the Paleozoic era or the beginning of the Mesozoic era. How old would the fossil have to be dated in order to support his hypothesis?

• A. 100 million years old

• B. 225 million years old

• C. 400 million years old

• D. 550 million years old

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS1-4