Question

determine whether the method listed is an absolute or relative dating method
relative absolute
law of superposition
uranium - lead dating
speciation
fossilization
stratigraphy

Explanation:

• Law of Superposition: This principle states that in undisturbed sedimentary rock layers, the oldest layers are at the bottom and the younger layers are on top. It is used to determine the relative order of rock layers and fossils within them, so it is a relative dating method.
• Uranium - Lead Dating: This is a radiometric dating method. It measures the ratio of uranium isotopes to lead isotopes in a sample. By knowing the decay rate of uranium, scientists can calculate the absolute age of a rock or fossil. So, it is an absolute dating method.
• Speciation: This is the process by which new species arise. In the context of dating (when used in paleontology), it helps in determining the relative age of fossils. For example, if a fossil of a species that is known to have existed during a certain geological period is found, it gives a relative time frame for the rock layer it is in. So, it is a relative dating method.
• Fossilization: The study of fossils (paleontology) often uses fossils to determine the relative age of rock layers. For instance, index fossils are used to correlate rock layers across different locations. So, it is a relative dating method.
• Stratigraphy: Stratigraphy is the study of rock layers (strata). The principles of stratigraphy (like the law of superposition) are used to determine the relative order of rock layers. So, it is a relative dating method.

Answer:

• Law of Superposition: Relative
• Uranium - Lead Dating: Absolute
• Speciation: Relative
• Fossilization: Relative
• Stratigraphy: Relative