When applied to a formation of rock layers what can absolute dating tell you

How do geologists read rock layers?

These can later tilt and fold due to tectonic activity, and river cuttings can cause gaps among the layers. Geologists are able to ‘read’ the rock layers using relative and absolute dating techniques. Relative dating arranges geological events – and the rocks they leave behind – in a sequence.

What is relative dating?

Relative dating arranges geological events – and the rocks they leave behind – in a sequence. The method of reading the order is called stratigraphy (layers of rock are called strata).

What are the characteristics of sedimentary rocks?

Most sedimentary rocks are laid down in flat, horizontal layers. These can later tilt and fold due to tectonic activity, and river cuttings can cause gaps among the layers.

How do geologists get rock core samples?

Geologists get rock core samples by pushing or drilling cylindrically shaped tubes down deep into the ground. When the tubes are pulled out, they contain a core sample of the rocks below.

How do you read the Order of rock layers?

The method of reading the order is called stratigraphy (layers of rock are called strata). In this activity, students observe rock layers located near Whanganui, watch an animation about how they were formed and use relative dating to work out the order in which rocks were created.

How do scientists measure the composition of rock layers?

As well as looking at the layers in the cores, scientists take samples of rocks from each of these layers and measure the different types of rocks and minerals in them using an electron microprobe (a specialist piece of equipment that can measure the composition of rocks in very small quantities). Phil can read the rock core like pages of a book.