An index fossil may be used for identifying
A - VCE - SSCE Biology - Question 18 - 2010 - Paper 1
Question 18
An index fossil may be used for identifying
A. the oldest rocks in a series of strata.
B. the age of rocks from the Jurassic period only.
C. the absolute age of a se... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:An index fossil may be used for identifying
A - VCE - SSCE Biology - Question 18 - 2010 - Paper 1
Step 1
Identify the purpose of an index fossil
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Answer
An index fossil is a fossil that is used to define and identify a particular time period in the geological time scale. It helps in correlating the ages of rocks by indicating a specific period in which it existed. Thus, it is particularly useful in identifying sedimentary rocks of the same age in different locations.
Step 2
Evaluate option A
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Answer
Option A suggests using the index fossil for identifying the oldest rocks in a series of strata. However, index fossils are not primarily used to date the oldest strata, but rather to indicate specific time periods.
Step 3
Evaluate option B
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Answer
Option B states that index fossils are used only for the age of rocks from the Jurassic period. This is incorrect as index fossils can be found in various periods and are not limited to any single geological time frame.
Step 4
Evaluate option C
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Answer
Option C indicates the absolute age of a sedimentary rock stratum. While index fossils contribute to dating, they are typically not employed to determine the absolute age, which requires other dating methods.
Step 5
Evaluate option D
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Answer
Option D is the correct choice, as it states that index fossils are used for identifying sedimentary rocks of the same age in different locations. This is the primary application of index fossils in geology.
