Which statement best summarizes the development of the geologic time scale?
A)Numerical ages for rocks were known well before the relative sequence of sedimentary layers was established.
B)Relative ages for sedimentary strata were known well before accurate numerical dates for these rocks could be provided.
C)Names of relative ages (such as Silurian)and accurate numerical dates for these ages appeared at about the same time.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The development of the geologic time scale involved first establishing the relative sequence of sedimentary layers based on the principle of superposition and other principles. Only later were accurate numerical dates for these rocks determined through radiometric dating methods. Therefore, option B is the best summary of the development of the geologic time scale.

Which Statement Best Summarizes the Development of the Geologic Time