Technologies and evidence

Question 1

What are THREE technological developments that have increased scientific understanding of global patterns in geological activity?

Answer 1

1. Sonar mapping of seafloor
2. Seismometers
3. Tsunami warning systems

These technologies allow for better monitoring and analysis of geological phenomena on a global scale.

Question 2

How do fossils form?

Answer 2

Fossils form through the processes of dying and getting buried, and then over time layers of sediment build up on top compressing the bones, then water from other minerals seek into the organisms bones and replace the organic material turning them into stone/fossils

This typically involves the rapid burial of organisms in sediment, followed by the replacement of organic material with minerals.

Question 3

What is the difference between relative and absolute dating?

Answer 3

Relative dating determines the age of a rock or fossil in relation to other rocks or fossils, while absolute dating provides a specific age in years.

Relative dating uses methods like stratigraphy, whereas absolute dating often involves radiometric techniques.

Question 4

How are radioactive isotopes used to date rock layers?

Answer 4

Radioactive isotopes are used to date rock layers by measuring the decay of isotopes within the rock, which occurs at a known rate.

This allows scientists to calculate the age of the rock based on the ratio of parent isotopes to daughter isotopes.