Fossils and Rocks

Geologists can use different kinds of dating methods to determine the ages of rocks and rock layers. If geologists are only observing the layers as shown in the diagram (and no further lab testing is performed), which kind of dating method is being used to learn about Earth's history in this example?

• absolute dating

• radiometric dating

• 
  relative dating

• carbon dating

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS1-4

Examine the diagram of locations where rocks form (W, X, Y, and Z) and the processes that occur at each location.

• W

• X

• Y

• Z

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-2

The diagram shows a rock cycle model made by a group of students.

Based on the rock cycle model, which statement is true?

Responses

• 
  

• All rocks originate only from igneous rocks.

• Temperature, pressure, and weathering drive the rock cycle.

• The rock cycle stops after the formation of sedimentary rocks.

• 
  Change in temperature alone is responsible for the creation of metamorphic rocks.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-1

Which type of rock will be formed from magma that is ejected from volcanic eruption?

• 
  extrusive igneous

• 
  intrusive igneous

• metamorphic

• sedimentary

The diagram represents the rock layers and fossils found in four separate rock outcrops.

Which fossil is the best index fossil?

• It is found in all four layers in one outcrop.

• It is found in only one of the four outcrops.

• It is found in one layer in all four outcrops

• It is found in both the oldest and youngest layers.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS1-4

NGSS.MS-LS4-1

The image shows the unturned layers of sedimentary rocks with embedded fossils.

A student labels the fossils from 1 to 4. What could be true about the fossils?

• Fossil 1 is younger than fossil 2.

• Fossil 1 is older than fossil 4.

• Fossil 3 is older than fossil 2.

• 
  Fossil 3 is younger than fossil 4.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS1-4

NGSS.MS-LS4-1

The image shows a trace fossil of a leaf that a scientist found.

What information does the leaf fossil most likely provide?

• 
  The plants were not a dominant species in the past.

• Insects that fed on plant leaves were present in the past.

• 
  Plants from the past and present-day plants have no similarities.

• The environment in the past was not suitable for the growth of plants.

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS4-1

A researcher examines fossils found in some rock layers. The various fossils discovered were arranged in undisturbed layers as shown in the diagram.

Which fossil is the youngest ?

• Fossil 1

• Fossil 2

• Fossil 3

• Fossil 4

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS1-4

Researchers have discovered fossils of tropical trees and ferns in modern-day Greenland and Antarctica. What can be inferred from this evidence?

• Greenland and Antarctica once had tropical climates.

• Ocean currents carried the floating fossils to Greenland and Antarctica.

• Migratory birds carried the seeds of the trees and ferns from the tropics

• 
  The tropical trees and ferns adapted to the colder northern and southern climates.

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS4-1

NGSS.MS-ESS2-2

The diagram shows a geologic cross-section from a region.

What are the relative ages of the rocks from oldest to youngest ?

• W, V, X, Z, and Y

• 
  W, Y, V, X, and Z

• W, V, X, Y, and Z

• W, V, Y, X, and Z

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS1-4

NGSS.MS-ESS2-3