Unraveling Earth's Geological History

What does the principle of uniformitarianism suggest about geological processes?

• They are influenced by human activity.
• They have changed over time.
• They are the same as those in the past.
• They only occur during specific events.

How do weathering and erosion affect geological features like the Grand Canyon?

• They only occur during earthquakes.
• They shape and change the landscape over time.
• They have no impact on geological features.
• They create new rock layers.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-2

How does the principle of superposition help in understanding sedimentary rock layers?

• It suggests that layers can be disturbed at any time.
• It states that all layers are the same age.
• It indicates that deeper layers are older than those above.
• It shows that sedimentary layers are always horizontal.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS1-4

If a rock layer contains an intrusion, what can be inferred about the ages of the layers?

• The ages of the layers cannot be determined.
• The intrusion is younger than the rock layers.
• The intrusion is older than the rock layers.
• The intrusion and layers are the same age.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS1-4

What is an unconformity in geological terms?

• A feature that indicates volcanic activity.
• A type of rock that forms under high pressure.
• A gap in the geological record where layers are missing.
• A layer of rock that is perfectly horizontal.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS1-4

Which of the following best describes the principle of original horizontality?

• Sedimentary layers are always vertical.
• Sedimentary layers are horizontal when deposited.
• Sedimentary layers can be tilted at any angle.
• Sedimentary layers form only in water.

If a geologist finds a rock layer that has been tilted, what principle might they apply to understand its history?

• Principle of crosscutting.
• Principle of intrusion.
• Principle of original horizontality.
• Principle of superposition.

In what way does the principle of crosscutting help geologists?

• It helps to date rocks based on their color.
• It proves that layers can never be disturbed.
• It indicates that features cutting through layers are younger.
• It shows that all geological features are the same age.

What is the difference between relative age dating and absolute age dating?

• Relative age is used for rocks, while absolute age is for fossils.
• Relative age compares ages, while absolute age gives a specific date.
• Both methods provide the same information.
• Relative age gives a specific date, while absolute age compares ages.

Which of the following statements about absolute age is true?

• It is always more accurate than relative age.
• It cannot be determined for rocks.
• It provides the actual age of an object or event.
• It describes the age of an object compared to another.

Tags

NGSS.HS-ESS1-5