Geologists use foundational stratigraphy rules to interpret the sequence of geological events recorded in rock strata. Match each relative dating principle with the statement that accurately defines its geological application.
- Principle of Cross-Cutting RelationshipsAny geologic feature, such as a fault or igneous intrusion, that cuts across rock strata must be younger than the rocks it disrupts.
- Principle of Original HorizontalityLayers of sediment are initially deposited in flat, level beds under gravity; tilted or folded beds indicate deformation after deposition.
- Principle of InclusionsRock fragments or clasts enclosed inside a surrounding rock unit are older than the rock matrix that surrounds them.
- Principle of Faunal SuccessionFossilized organisms follow one another vertically in a recognizable, irreversible order, allowing rock layers in different regions to be correlated.
Answer
Principle of Cross-Cutting Relationships matches the statement that cross-cutting features are younger than the rocks they penetrate; Principle of Original Horizontality matches the statement that sediments settle horizontally under gravity; Principle of Inclusions matches the statement that enclosed rock fragments are older than the host rock; Principle of Faunal Succession matches the statement that fossil assemblages occur in a predictable vertical sequence.
Each principle governs a distinct relative dating rule: Cross-Cutting Relationships determine that intrusive features or faults are younger than the rock layers they intersect; Original Horizontality dictates that sediments deposit in horizontal layers; Inclusions dictate that trapped fragments are older than the enclosing matrix; and Faunal Succession uses the non-repeating vertical order of fossils to correlate strata.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
Principles of Relative Dating and Stratigraphy
Estimated Time:1m 15s