Question

multiple-choice question
what does the red color of sandstone tell scientists about the past environment?
a. that the area was a prehistoric bbq site with way too much smoke.
b. that oxygen in the air reacted with iron in the sediment, meaning the area was likely not underwater.
c. that the dinosaurs were playing with paint millions of years ago.
d. that aliens tried to turn the area into mars.

Explanation:

The red color of sandstone is caused by the oxidation of iron minerals in the sediment. Oxidation requires oxygen, which is abundant in terrestrial (non-underwater) environments. The other options are fictional and not based on geological science.

Answer:

B. That oxygen in the air reacted with iron in the sediment, meaning the area was likely not underwater.