Relative Dating in Geology
Explore the principles of relative dating used to determine the chronological order of geological events.
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Relative Dating in Geology
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Read each question carefully and answer to the best of your ability. Refer to the provided diagrams where applicable.
1. Which principle states that in an undisturbed sequence of sedimentary strata, the oldest layer is at the bottom and the youngest is at the top?
Principle of Cross-Cutting Relationships
Principle of Superposition
Principle of Original Horizontality
Principle of Faunal Succession
2. An igneous intrusion cuts through existing sedimentary layers. According to the Principle of Cross-Cutting Relationships, which is older?
The igneous intrusion
The sedimentary layers
They are the same age
Cannot be determined
3. The Principle of states that sedimentary layers are originally deposited in horizontal or nearly horizontal layers.
4. An unconformity represents a gap in the geologic record, often due to erosion or a period of non- .
5. Observe the image below of sedimentary layers. Based on the Principle of Superposition, identify the oldest and youngest layers.
Oldest layer:
Youngest layer:
6. Explain how index fossils are used in relative dating.
7. The Principle of Original Horizontality can be used to infer that tilted sedimentary layers have been disturbed after their deposition.
True
False
8. Relative dating provides a numerical age for geological events.
True
False