Which evidence would confirm that a given rock layer is newer than the layers around it?(1 point)
1) It has been crumpled and folded, while the other layers lie flat.
2) It cuts through all the other layers.
3) Other layers have been deposited above it.
4) It is horizontally-oriented.
3) Other layers have been deposited above it.
The evidence that would confirm that a given rock layer is newer than the layers around it is option 3) Other layers have been deposited above it.
The correct answer is 3) Other layers have been deposited above it.
The reason why other layers being deposited above a rock layer would confirm that it is newer than the layers around it is because of the principle of superposition. This principle states that in an undisturbed sequence of rock layers, the oldest rocks are usually found at the bottom, while the youngest rocks are found at the top.
To determine the relative ages of rock layers, geologists use a method called stratigraphy. This method relies on the observation of how rock layers are arranged in a particular area and the principles of relative dating.
In this case, if other layers have been deposited on top of a given rock layer, it means that those layers are younger than the rock layer below. The process of deposition involves the accumulation of sediment or rock particles over time, forming new layers on top of existing ones. So, if a rock layer is found with layers above it, it can be concluded that it is newer than the surrounding layers.
It's important to note that the other options provided, such as 1) crumpling and folding of the rock layer, 2) cutting through all other layers, and 4) horizontal orientation, may provide evidence of geological events or processes but not necessarily indicate the relative age of the rock layers.