Question

the diagram above shows fossils found at different depths below the surface of the earth. letters a, b, and c are different sedimentary rock layers where the fossils were found. which of the following is true about the fossils found in the layers shown in the diagram above?- fossil 3 is younger than fossil 2.- fossil 1 and fossil 5 are most likely the same age.- fossil 1 is most likely younger than fossil 5.- fossil 3 and fossil 4 are most likely the same age.

Explanation:

Using the law of superposition, deeper sedimentary layers (and their fossils) are older than shallower ones. Also, the igneous intrusion D cuts through layers, so layers it cuts are older than D, and the displaced A layer with Fossil 5 is part of the original A layer (same as Fossil 1's layer) shifted by faulting.

1. Fossil 3 is in layer C, deeper than Fossil 2's layer B, so it is older, not younger.
2. Fossil 1 and Fossil 5 are both in layer A (the fault shifted part of A, but it's the same original layer), so they are most likely the same age.
3. Fossil 1 and 5 are in the same layer, so they are not different ages.
4. Fossil 3 is in layer C, Fossil 4 in layer B; C is deeper/older, so they are not the same age.

Answer:

Fossil 1 and Fossil 5 are most likely the same age.