Two scientists debate the formation of the Grand Canyon.
Scientist 1
The Grand Canyon was carved slowly over approximately 6 million years. The Colorado River gradually eroded the uplifting Colorado Plateau. The erosion rate remained relatively constant, averaging about . This slow process allowed the river to gradually cut through the rising rock strata, depositing fine, well-sorted sediments downstream at a steady rate.
Scientist 2
The Grand Canyon was formed rapidly, likely within a few weeks, by a catastrophic outburst flood. Approximately 5.5 million years ago, a massive prehistoric lake located on the Colorado Plateau breached its natural barrier. The sudden release of water created a massive, high-velocity flow that carved the canyon. This flood would have deposited a thick layer of unsorted gravel and large boulders downstream.
Based on the presented viewpoints, the discovery of a downstream sediment layer containing large, poorly sorted boulders dated to 5.5 million years ago is consistent with the predictions of Scientist 1.
Answer: Answer