stratigrraphyandgeologictime地层与地质时间 .pptx

Stratigraphy and Geologic Time;Stratigraphy: Stratigraphy is the study of rock layers (strata) and their relationship with each other. Stratigraphy provides simple principles used to interpret geologic events. ;Two rock units at a cliff in Missouri. (US Geological Survey);Basic principles of relative age dating Relative dating means that rocks are placed in their proper sequence of formation. A formation is a basic unit of rocks. Below are some basic principles for establishing relative age between formations. Principle of original horizontality Principle of superposition Principle of faunal succession Principle of cross-cutting relationships ;Principle of original horizontality: Layers of sediment are generally deposited in a horizontal position. Thus if we observed rock layers that are folded or inclined, they must, with exceptions, have been moved into that position by crustal disturbances sometime after their deposition. ;Most layers of sediment are deposited in a nearly horizontal position. Thus, when we see inclined rock layers as shown, we can assume that they must have been moved into that position after deposition. Hartland Quay, Devon, England by Tom Bean/DRK Photo.;Principle of superposition: In an undeformed sequence of sedimentary rocks, each bed is older than the one above and younger than the one below. The rule also applies to other surface-deposited materials such as lava flows and volcanic ashes. ;Principle of superposition. (W.W. Norton);Applying the law of superposition to the layers at the upper portion of the Grand Canyon, the Supai Group is the oldest and the Kaibab Limestone is the youngest. (photo by Tarbuck).;Principle of cross-cutting relationships: When a fault cuts through rocks, or when magma intrudes and crystallizes, we can assume that the fault or intrusion is younger than the rocks affected. ;Cross-cutting relationships: An intrusive rock body is younger than the rocks it intrudes. A fault is