Absolute Age of Rocks and Fossils Quick Check
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Question
When will a fossil be used in finding the absolute age of rocks?(1 point)
Responses
if it existed for a limited period of time and in a small area
if it existed for a limited period of time and in a small area
if it existed for a long period of time and in a small area
if it existed for a long period of time and in a small area
if it existed for a long period of time and in a wide area
if it existed for a long period of time and in a wide area
if it existed for a limited period of time and in a wide area
if it existed for a limited period of time and in a wide area
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The correct answer is: if it existed for a limited period of time and in a wide area.
The correct answer is: if it existed for a limited period of time and in a small area
To determine the absolute age of rocks, scientists often use a method called radiometric dating. This method relies on the decay of radioactive isotopes within the rocks or minerals.
When it comes to using fossils to determine the absolute age of rocks, a general rule is that the fossil should have existed for a long period of time and in a wide area. This is because fossils form in sedimentary rocks, which are formed over long periods of time and in extensive geographic areas. Fossils that are found in many layers of rocks, across different locations, can provide valuable information about the age of those rocks.
Therefore, in the given options, the correct response would be: "if it existed for a long period of time and in a wide area."