To determine which feature is the youngest using the principles of original horizontality, superposition, and cross-cutting relationships, you should analyze the relationships between the features in the geological diagram.
-
Original Horizontality: This principle states that layers of sediment are originally deposited horizontally. If you see layers that are tilted or folded, those features must have been disturbed after their original deposition.
-
Superposition: This principle states that in an undeformed sequence of sedimentary rock, the oldest layers are at the bottom and the youngest layers are at the top.
-
Cross-Cutting Relationships: This principle states that if one geological feature cuts across another, the feature that has been cut is older than the feature that does the cutting.
To apply these principles:
- Identify the features labeled N, G, R, and H.
- Look for any features that cut across others (cross-cutting relationships) or the layering of sediment (superposition).
- The youngest feature will either be a feature that cuts through others or the topmost layer of a stack of layers.
Without seeing the diagram, it's impossible to definitively identify which is the youngest, but you should apply the above principles to determine that:
- If any feature cuts through others (e.g., a fault or an igneous intrusion), that would be the youngest.
- If you have sedimentary layers, the topmost one would be younger than those beneath it.
Please check the relationships in your diagram according to these principles to identify which letter represents the youngest feature.
1 answer