Two meanings for the horizontal lines on the geologic History NYS chart.
To understand the two meanings of the horizontal lines on the Geologic History NYS (New York State) chart, we need to explore the context and purpose of the chart itself.
The Geologic History NYS chart provides a visual representation of the geological changes that have occurred in New York State over millions of years. It typically divides the geological timeline into different periods and epochs, depicting the major events and formations that have shaped the state's landscapes. The horizontal lines on the chart serve two key purposes:
1. Chronological Divisions: The first meaning of the horizontal lines is to represent chronological divisions. Geological time is divided into various periods, such as the Paleozoic, Mesozoic, and Cenozoic eras, which are further subdivided into epochs. Each horizontal line on the chart indicates the boundary between these geological periods or epochs. These lines help to organize and distinguish different time intervals, allowing us to understand the sequence of events and the relative timing of geological changes.
2. Stratigraphic Divisions: The second meaning of the horizontal lines is to represent stratigraphic divisions. Stratigraphy is the study of rock layers (strata) and their arrangement in the Earth's crust. Each horizontal line on the chart corresponds to a specific rock layer or stratigraphic boundary. These lines help geologists identify and correlate these layers across different regions, providing a valuable framework for understanding the distribution and composition of rocks throughout New York State.
By considering the horizontal lines on the Geologic History NYS chart as both chronological and stratigraphic divisions, we can gain insights into the temporal and spatial aspects of the geological history of the state.