Question

the diagram shows fossils in different rock layers. which of these statements about the age of these fossils is most likely correct? fossil a and c are the same age; fossil b is older than fossil c; fossil d is older than fossil c; fossils a is older than fossil b

Explanation:

To determine the correct statement about the age of fossils in different rock layers, we use the principle of superposition in geology (a key concept in Earth Science, a subfield of Natural Science). The principle of superposition states that in undisturbed sedimentary rock layers, the oldest layers are at the bottom, and younger layers are deposited on top.

1. Analyze the rock layers: The diagram shows rock layers with fossils A, B, C, D. Layer 4 (with D) is at the bottom, then layer 3 (C), layer 2 (B), and layer 1 (A) at the top.
2. Apply the principle of superposition: Fossils in lower layers are older than those in upper layers. So, D is in a lower layer than C, B, and A. C is lower than B and A. B is lower than A.
3. Evaluate each option:

• "Fossil A and C are the same age": A is in a higher (younger) layer than C, so they can't be the same age. Eliminate this.
• "Fossil B is older than fossil C": B is in a higher (younger) layer than C, so B is younger than C. Eliminate this.
• "Fossil D is older than fossil C": D is in a lower (older) layer than C, so D is older than C. This is correct.
• "Fossils A is older than fossil B": A is in a higher (younger) layer than B, so A is younger than B. Eliminate this.

Answer:

The correct statement is "Fossil D is older than fossil C" (the third option).