Law of Original Horizontality

The Law of Original Horizontality states that sedimentary layers of rocks are originally deposited in nearly horizontal or flat layers due to gravity. Over time, these layers may be tilted or folded by geological forces, but their initial position was horizontal. This principle helps geologists determine the relative age of rock layers and understand geological events by observing how these layers are tilted or disturbed from their original horizontal position. Essentially, it provides a baseline for recognizing later geological changes that affect rock formations.