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

3700 Views

See similar Geology A Level tutors

Related Geology A Level answers

All answers ▸

How can you tell the environment a sedimentary rock is deposited in?


How are vesicles and amygdales formed in an igneous rock?


How can you tell the environment a sedimentary rock is deposited in?


Describe and explain the changes organic material undergo in coalification


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