GENERAL GEOLOGY

GEOLOGY

STRATIGRAPHY

Question [CLICK ON ANY CHOICE TO KNOW THE RIGHT ANSWER]
Scientists studying rock layers identify the top layer as the most recent, followed by older layers that are covered as they dig deeper. Which law describes this method of relative dating?
A
law of geologic continuity
B
law of superposition
C
law of universal position
D
law of lateral continuity
Explanation: 

Detailed explanation-1: -law of superposition, a major principle of stratigraphy stating that within a sequence of layers of sedimentary rock, the oldest layer is at the base and that the layers are progressively younger with ascending order in the sequence.

Detailed explanation-2: -Geology. a basic law of geochronology, stating that in any undisturbed sequence of rocks deposited in layers, the youngest layer is on top and the oldest on bottom, each layer being younger than the one beneath it and older than the one above it.

Detailed explanation-3: -Steno’s laws of stratigraphy describe the patterns in which rock layers are deposited. The four laws are the law of superposition, law of original horizontality, law of cross-cutting relationships, and law of lateral continuity.

Detailed explanation-4: -The numerical ages of rocks in the Geologic Time Scale are determined by radiometric dating, which makes use of a process called radioactive decay – the same process that goes on inside a nuclear reactor to produce heat to make electricity. Radiometric dating works because radioactive elements decay at a known rate.

Detailed explanation-5: -According to the law of superposition, in horizontal sedimentary rock layers the oldest is at the bottom. Each higher layer is younger than the layer below it.

There is 1 question to complete.