Question

william smiths principle contribution to stratigraphy was: the theory of uniformitarianism the principle of original horizontality the principle of faunal succession the law of superposition

Explanation:

William Smith is known for the principle of faunal succession. It states that fossil assemblages occur in a definite, recognizable order in the geological record. The theory of uniformitarianism is associated with Charles Lyell. The principle of original horizontality was proposed by Nicolas Steno and states that sedimentary layers are originally deposited horizontally. The law of superposition, also by Steno, says that in an undeformed sequence of sedimentary rocks, the oldest layers are at the bottom and the youngest at the top.

Answer:

The principle of faunal succession