Which is correct about fossils location and age? (1 point)
COURSE TOOLS
O Fossils found in among numerous other fossils are most recent in age
O Fossils found in rock layers closest to Earth's surface are the oldest.
O Fossils found in lower rock layers are older than fossils found in upper layers
O Fossils found in rock layers that have been disturbed are the oldest.
O Fossils found in lower rock layers are older than fossils found in upper layers
The correct statement about fossils location and age is:
O Fossils found in lower rock layers are older than fossils found in upper layers.
The correct option is:
Fossils found in lower rock layers are older than fossils found in upper layers.
To determine the age of fossils, scientists use a principle called the Law of Superposition. According to this law, in undisturbed rock layers, the older rocks are found at lower depths, while the younger rocks are found closer to the surface.
So, when it comes to fossils, the ones found in lower rock layers are generally older than the ones found in upper layers. This is because layers of rock are deposited over time, with newer layers forming on top of older layers. As a result, fossils found in lower layers have been there for a longer period compared to those found in upper layers.
It is important to note that the age of fossils can also be determined using additional methods like radiometric dating, which involves analyzing the decay of radioactive isotopes in the fossils themselves or the surrounding rocks. However, in this case, the principle of superposition is being referred to when discussing the relative ages of fossils in different rock layers.