The relative age of rocks

Front

What is the process called when lava hardens on the surface and forms igneous rock?

Back

Extrusion

Front

What is the release of elements from a radioactive substance called?

Back

Radioactive Decay

Front

What principle determines the relative age of sedimentary rock?

Back

Law of Superposition

Front

What term describes the number of years that have passed since a rock was formed?

Back

Absolute Age

Front

What is the term for a rock's age compared to other rocks?

Back

Relative Age

Front

What is an index fossil?

Back

A fossil that is used to define and identify a particular time period in the geological time scale.

Front

What is the Law of Superposition?

Back

In undisturbed sedimentary rock layers, 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 half-life in the context of radioactive decay?

Back

The time required for half of the radioactive atoms in a sample to decay.

Front

What is the difference between absolute age and relative age?

Back

Absolute age is the actual age of a rock, while relative age is its age compared to other rocks.