Define the law of superposition

The law of superposition states that the oldest rocks in a stratigraphic sequence will be at the bottom, and age of each layer decreases as you move upwards (I.e. a layer in a sequence cannot be younger than one above it). This assumes that the sequence is still the right way up, and that none of the layers intruded after the sequence was deposited.

HH
Answered by Henry H. Geology tutor

3703 Views

See similar Geology A Level tutors

Related Geology A Level answers

All answers ▸

Why is heat flow over a mid-ocean ridge higher than over an oceanic trench?


Which fossil group will show 5-fold (Pentameral) symmetry, is composed of plates, a mouth and an anus on opposite surfaces?


What are some hypotheses to explain the Permo-Triassic mass extinction? (when 95% of marine invertebrates and 77% of land species became extinct)


Describe the differences in internal morphology that can be seen between a Nautilus and Ammonite


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning