Question

What is the concept of relative dating?

Comparing the age of different rocks
Analyzing the hardness of the rocks
Determining the exact age of a rock
Studying the chemical of composition of rocks

Answer 1

The concept of relative dating primarily involves **comparing the age of different rocks** to determine their chronological sequence. It does not provide an exact age but instead allows scientists to understand the order in which rock layers were deposited or formed relative to one another. This is often accomplished by using principles such as the Law of Superposition, where younger layers are deposited on top of older layers, as well as other principles like cross-cutting relationships and faunal succession. Relative dating helps construct the geological history of an area but does not specify actual numerical ages.