the principle of stratigraphy

Stratigraphy is the study of layered rock formations, or strata, which helps us understand Earth's history. As sediments accumulate over time, they form distinct layers. The principle of superposition states that in undisturbed layers, the oldest rocks are at the bottom and the youngest are at the top. By examining these layers, scientists can determine the relative ages of rocks, fossil records, and past environments. This information is crucial for fields like geology, archaeology, and paleontology, as it provides insights into the Earth's processes and the evolution of life over millions of years.