The Stratigraphic Record

The stratigraphic record refers to the layers of rock and sediment that have formed over time in the Earth's crust. Each layer, or stratum, represents a specific period in history, often containing fossils and minerals that tell us about past environments and life forms. By studying these layers, scientists can interpret geological events, understand Earth's history, and even date materials. The stratigraphic record acts like a book of Earth’s past, where each layer is a page revealing clues about our planet’s evolution over millions of years.