Question

using the law of superposition, which statement best explains the relative ages of these rock layers?
a. layer o is the oldest layer because it is the bottom layer; layer l is the youngest layer because it is the top layer.

b. layer n is older than layer m because it contains fossil footprints of large reptiles.

c. layer o is the youngest layer because it is the bottom layer; layer l is the oldest layer because it is the top layer.

d. layers l and o are the same age because they contain the same types of fossils.

Explanation:

The law of superposition states that in undisturbed rock layers, the bottom layer is the oldest, and each layer above is younger. Option A correctly applies this: the bottom Layer O is oldest, top Layer L is youngest. Option C reverses this rule. Option B uses fossil evidence not related to superposition. Option D incorrectly assumes same fossils mean same age, which is not part of the law of superposition.

Answer:

A. Layer O is the oldest layer because it is the bottom layer; Layer L is the youngest layer because it is the top layer.