Question

The image shows cross-cutting relationships. B, W, E, and K represent rock layers, and Q represents a fault.

Cross-cutting relationships. Horizontal rock layers B, W, E, and K from bottom to top. Fault line Q divides layers B, W, and E. The layers to the right of the fault have shifted up, with layer E smaller on the right than on the left.

Which statement describes the geologic features?

Layer K is the oldest.
Layer W is the youngest.
Fault Q occurred before layer K was deposited.
Layers B, W, and E were deposited after fault Q occurred.

Answer 1

"Fault Q occurred before layer K was deposited."

Reason: Q cuts B, W, and E, so Q is younger than those layers. K is not cut by Q (it lies above the fault), so K was deposited after the fault — therefore the fault occurred before layer K was deposited.