Question

which of the following can not be determined by studying the strata of earth?
the composition of the rock and soil during a period of earths history.
the levels of carbon dioxide that were present in the atmosphere during a period of time.
the absolute age of a fossil based on the location within the strata.
fossils evidence of life on earth during a particular time in history.

Explanation:

Strata can show rock/soil composition (from layers' makeup), carbon - dioxide levels (from trapped gases in some strata - related formations like certain rocks), and fossil evidence (as fossils are found in strata). But the location within strata gives relative age (e.g., lower strata are older in undisturbed layers), not absolute age (which requires radiometric dating etc.).

Answer:

The absolute age of a fossil based on the location within the strata.