Relative Dating

Front

What does relative dating of rock layers tell us about the depth of rocks?

Back

The deeper we dig, the older the rocks get.

Front

How do geologists use relative dating?

Back

Geologists place rocks in order from youngest to oldest.

Front

What can be inferred about a rock layer containing a fossil?

Back

It is older than the layers above it.

Front

What principle states that younger rocks lie above older rocks if the layers have not been disturbed?

Back

Law of superposition.

Front

What is relative dating used for?

Back

To determine whether an object is older or younger than other objects.

Front

What is the Law of Superposition?

Back

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

Front

What is an unconformity in geology?

Back

A gap in the geological record that represents a period of erosion or non-deposition.

Front

What is the significance of fossils in relative dating?

Back

Fossils help to establish the relative ages of rock layers.

Front

What does the term 'strata' refer to in geology?

Back

Strata refers to layers of sedimentary rock or soil.

Front

What is the difference between relative dating and absolute dating?

Back

Relative dating places events in order without providing an exact age, while absolute dating gives a specific age.