According to the principle of superposition, which layer is youngest in an undisturbed sequence?

Prepare for the Introduction to Physical Geology Exam with study guides and multiple choice questions. Each question comes with hints and detailed explanations to help you grasp key concepts in geology. Ace your exam with confidence!

Multiple Choice

According to the principle of superposition, which layer is youngest in an undisturbed sequence?

Explanation:
In an undisturbed stack of sedimentary layers, deposition happens on top of what’s already there. Each new layer forms above the previous ones, so the material at the top is the most recently deposited and thus the youngest. Going downward, layers get progressively older. This relies on the sequence remaining undisturbed—tilting, erosion, or intrusion can disrupt the simple top-youngest pattern.

In an undisturbed stack of sedimentary layers, deposition happens on top of what’s already there. Each new layer forms above the previous ones, so the material at the top is the most recently deposited and thus the youngest. Going downward, layers get progressively older. This relies on the sequence remaining undisturbed—tilting, erosion, or intrusion can disrupt the simple top-youngest pattern.

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