The principles of superposition, original horizontality, and lateral continuity apply to all rocks in the rock cycle.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

These principles primarily apply to sedimentary rocks. Superposition helps determine the relative ages of sedimentary layers, original horizontality suggests that layers of sediment are originally deposited horizontally under the action of gravity, and lateral continuity suggests that layers initially extend laterally in all directions; these do not directly apply to igneous or metamorphic rocks, which are formed through different processes.

The Principles of Superposition, Original Horizontality, and Lateral Continuity Apply