The diagram below shows a sequence of rock layers. Examine the diagram, and answer the question that follows. Using radiometric dating, scientists have determined that Layer M is 110 million years old. Based on this information and the principle of superposition:

Question

(1 point)
Responses

Layer T is older than 110 million years, and Layers R, X, and G are younger than 110 million years.
Layer T is older than 110 million years, and Layers R, X, and G are younger than 110 million years.

Layer T is younger than 110 million years, and Layers R, X, and G are older than 110 million years.
Layer T is younger than 110 million years, and Layers R, X, and G are older than 110 million years.

Layers T, R, X, and G are all older than 110 million years.
Layers T, R, X, and G are all older than 110 million years.

Layers T, R, X, and G are all younger than 110 million years.
Layers T, R, X, and G are all younger than 110 million years.

Answer 1

Based on the principle of superposition, which states that in undeformed sedimentary rock layers, the oldest layers are at the bottom and the younger layers are at the top, we can interpret the age relationships between the layers provided that Layer M is 110 million years old.

If Layer M is determined to be 110 million years old, and it is located below Layer T, then Layer T must be younger than 110 million years. Conversely, if Layer M is above Layers R, X, and G in the stratigraphic sequence, then those layers (R, X, and G) must be older than 110 million years.

Therefore, based on this information and the principle of superposition, the correct conclusion is:

Layer T is younger than 110 million years, and Layers R, X, and G are older than 110 million years.