Question

the image shows core samples of rock strata taken from three different regions on earth. all the fossils shown in the image are index fossils. identify the youngest layer and the oldest layer in the image. assume that no overturning took place

Explanation:

Step1: Apply the principle of superposition

In undisturbed sedimentary rock strata, the younger layers are on top and the older layers are at the bottom.

Step2: Identify the youngest layer

Looking at all the strata, the layer with \(F2\) (in the first core sample) is the top - most layer among all the shown strata.

Step3: Identify the oldest layer

The layer with \(F3\) (in the third core sample) is the bottom - most layer among all the shown strata.

Answer:

Youngest layer: \(F2\), Oldest layer: \(F3\)