Principles of Relative Dating

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What is the principle of superposition?

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In a sequence of undisturbed sedimentary rocks, the oldest layers are at the bottom and the youngest layers are at the top.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS1-4

Front

Define intrusion in geology.

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An intrusion is a body of igneous rock that forms when magma cools and solidifies within pre-existing rock layers.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-1

Front

What is an unconformity?

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An unconformity is a surface that represents a gap in the geological record, indicating that sediment was not deposited for a period of time.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS1-4

Front

What does a fault represent in geological terms?

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A fault is a fracture or zone of fractures between two blocks of rock, allowing for movement and displacement.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS1-4

Front

Explain what erosion surface means.

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An erosion surface is a surface that has been worn away by the action of wind, water, or ice, often exposing underlying layers.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-2

Front

What is the significance of rock unit relationships in relative dating?

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Rock unit relationships help determine the chronological order of geological events and the relative ages of rock layers.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS1-4

Front

How can you identify the youngest rock layer in a sequence?

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The youngest rock layer is typically found at the top of the sequence, following the principle of superposition.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS1-4

Front

What is a fold in geology?

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A fold is a bend in rock layers that occurs due to tectonic forces, often resulting in complex structures.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-3

Front

Define the term 'geological time scale'.

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The geological time scale is a system of chronological dating that relates geological strata to time, dividing Earth's history into eons, eras, periods, and epochs.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS1-4

Front

What is the difference between relative dating and absolute dating?

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Relative dating determines the sequence of events without providing specific ages, while absolute dating provides a numerical age for rocks or fossils.