which evidence would confirm that a given rock layer is newer than the layers around it?

Question

a. it has been crumpled and folded, while the other layers lie flat
b. it cuts through all the other layers
c. other layers have been deposited above it
d. it is horizontally-oriented

Answer 1

The correct evidence that would confirm that a given rock layer is newer than the layers around it is:

b. it cuts through all the other layers.

This is based on the principle of cross-cutting relationships in geology, which states that a geologic feature (in this case, the rock layer that cuts through others) must be younger than the layers it disrupts.