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Experiment 2Reconstructing Geologic Events using Relative Dating Principles Experiment Inventory

Materials Paper Models

*Scissors

*Computer Access

*Printer Access

*Clear Tape

Note: You must provide the materials listed in *red.

EXPERIMENT 2: RECONSTRUCTING GEOLOGIC EVENTS USING RELATIVE DATING PRINCIPLES

In this experiment, you will fold paper models to create 3-dimensional stratigraphic blocks. These 3-dimensional models will allow you to envision strata in the natural environment. You will establish age relationships between the strata using the principles of relative dating. The patterned layers represent sedimentary rocks, red solid layers represent igneous rocks, and the solid green square represents the Earth’s surface. Assume that there are no age gaps between layers unless told otherwise.

PROCEDURE

1. Print out the provided models.

2. Carefully cut around the paper models so that you have two “t” shaped models. Fold the “legs” of each block under so that your formation stands like a table with the Earth’s surface (the green square) on top (see Figure 12). Tape the “legs” together so that you have an assembled block similar to Figure 12.

3. Observe each formation. Notice how the layers vary based on the perspective with which you look at the block. Consider the processes that created these formations.

4. Rank the events from oldest to youngest in Tables 4, 5, and 6. Include the type of event (deposition, erosion, or tectonic) and the principle(s) of relative dating used. An example is provided in Table 4.

Note: Some letters may depict events and not layers

5. Answer the Post-Lab questions.

Figure 12. Assembled Stratigraphic Model 1.

© 2019, eScience Labs

© 2019, eScience Labs

© 2019, eScience Labs

© 2019, eScience Labs

Data Sheet Experiment 2 Data Sheet Table 4. Model 1

Rock Formation (Letter) Type of Event Relative Dating Principle(s)

Youngest

B Deposition Superposition

Oldest

Table 5. Model 2

Rock Formation (Letter) Type of Event Relative Dating Principle(s)

Youngest

Oldest

Table 6. Model 3

Rock Formation (Letter) Type of Event Relative Dating Principle(s)

Youngest

Oldest

© 2019, eScience Labs