8.E.2 Earth History

Front

What is relative dating?

Back

A process that allows scientists to compare rock layers with others in a sequence to determine their age.

Front

What does the Law of Superposition state?

Back

In undisturbed layers of sedimentary rock, the lowest layers contain the older rocks.

Front

How do faults relate to the Law of Superposition?

Back

Faults are younger than the layers they cut through.

Front

What chemical compound is commonly found in ice core samples?

Back

Carbon dioxide.

Front

What are trace fossils?

Back

Fossilized tracks or other evidence of an organism's activity.

Front

What is absolute dating?

Back

A method used to determine the exact age of a rock or fossil.

Front

What is radiometric dating?

Back

A technique used to date materials by comparing the abundance of a radioactive isotope to its decay products.

Front

What is a sedimentary rock?

Back

A type of rock formed by the accumulation of sediment.

Front

What is the significance of ice core samples in studying Earth history?

Back

They provide information about past climates and atmospheric conditions.

Front

What are fossils?

Back

Remains or traces of ancient organisms preserved in rock.