Law of Superposition

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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.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS1-4

NGSS.MS-ESS2-3

Front

How can fossils help determine the age of rock layers?

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Fossils found in rock layers can indicate the relative age of the layers, as certain organisms existed during specific time periods.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS1-4

NGSS.MS-LS4-1

Front

What does it mean if a rock layer is described as 'younger' than another?

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A younger rock layer is one that was formed after the older layer, typically found above it in a sequence.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS1-4

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What is an intrusion in geology?

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

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What is a fault in geological terms?

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

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What is the significance of the Kaibab formation?

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The Kaibab formation is significant as it represents a relatively young rock layer in the Grand Canyon, containing fossils and geological features.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS1-4

NGSS.MS-ESS2-3

NGSS.MS-LS4-1

Front

How do geologists determine the relative ages of rock layers?

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Geologists use principles such as the Law of Superposition, fossil correlation, and cross-cutting relationships to determine relative ages.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS1-4

Front

What is the principle of original horizontality?

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The principle of original horizontality states that layers of sediment are originally deposited horizontally under the action of gravity.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS1-4

Front

What is a sedimentary rock?

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

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What is the difference between relative age and absolute age?

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Relative age is the age of a rock layer compared to other layers, while absolute age is the actual age in years.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS1-4