"The present is the key to the past" is the uniformitarian concept that______ .
A) the rates of geologic processes (erosion, sedimentation, volcanism) are invariant
B) geologic processes give rise to the same types of products and features
C) each mountain that is eroding today to produce river sediment has always done so
D) rivers, seas, mountains, etc. are perpetual features of an unchanging landscape

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The uniformitarian concept, encapsulated by the phrase "the present is the key to the past," suggests that the geologic processes observed today have operated in the same manner throughout Earth's history, leading to similar types of products and features over time. This principle is foundational in understanding how current geological observations can inform us about Earth's past.

"The Present Is the Key to the Past" Is the Uniformitarian