Relative Dating II

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How is relative dating used?

Relative Dating II

In the early days of geology, scientists developed several principles which they used to determine whether a particular rock unit was older or younger than another unit.

For example, the Principle of Original Horizontality stated that sedimentary rock layers (and lava flows) are deposited as relatively horizontal sheets. If they aren't horizontal now, clearly they were somehow tipped or moved.

   

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