Relative Dating Practice

A missing layer that exists between horizontal and Folded rock layers?

• uncomformity

• angular unconformity

• disconformity

The diagram shows a cross section of rocks beside a highway. 
Which rock type is the oldest?

• rock type 1

• rock type 2

• rock type 3

• rock type 4

Answer explanation

In geological cross sections, the oldest rock is typically found at the bottom. Since rock type 4 is positioned lowest in the diagram, it is the oldest rock type among the options provided.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS1-4

In the diagram which rock lasyer is probably the oldest?

• layer 1

• layer 2

• layer 5

• layer 6

Answer explanation

In sedimentary rock layers, the oldest layers are typically at the bottom. Since layer 6 is the lowest in the diagram, it is likely the oldest rock layer compared to layers 1, 2, and 5.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS1-4

The age of a rock compared to the ages of other rocks is the rock's

• absolute age

• geologic age

• sedimentary age

• relative age

Answer explanation

The relative age of a rock refers to its age in comparison to other rocks, indicating whether it is older or younger, rather than providing a specific numerical age. Thus, the correct answer is relative age.

Rank these four layers from youngest to oldest:

• ADEG

• AEDG

• GDAE

• GEDA

Answer explanation

To rank the layers from youngest to oldest, we identify that GEDA is the correct order. G is the youngest, followed by E, D, and A as the oldest. Thus, GEDA represents the correct sequence.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS1-4

Look at the picture. Which fossil is most likely older?

• 
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Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS1-4

Look at the picture. Which fossil is most likely younger?

• 
• 

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS1-4

Which rock layer in the diagram seems to be the oldest?

• F

• E

• B

• A

Answer explanation

In geological layers, the oldest rock is typically found at the bottom. Layer A is at the lowest position in the diagram, indicating it was formed first, making it the oldest compared to layers B, E, and F.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS1-4

What are the relative ages of the features in order from oldest to youngest?

• Limestone, Basalt, Fault, Siltstone

• Siltstone, Fault, Basalt, Limestone

• Limestone, Fault, Basalt, Siltstone

• Limestone, Siltstone, Fault, Basalt

Answer explanation

The correct order is Limestone, Siltstone, Fault, Basalt. Limestone is the oldest sedimentary rock, followed by Siltstone. The Fault disrupts these layers, making it younger, and Basalt is the youngest volcanic rock that intrudes after these formations.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS1-4

Which of the following correctly lists the layers in order from oldest to youngest?

• A, B, C, D, E

• E, B, C, D, A

• E, D, C, B, A

• C, B, A, D, E

Answer explanation

The correct order from oldest to youngest is E, B, C, D, A. This sequence reflects the geological principle of superposition, where lower layers are older than those above them.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS1-4