Biostratigraphy Flashcards
1
Q
Define Biostratigraphy
A
Studies the application of fossils to determine the temporal relationships of sedimentary successions. The fossil contents of beds are used to unravel the beds’ historical sequences
2
Q
What is biostratigraphy based on?
A
The principal of the irreversability of evolution.
3
Q
What is the biostratigraphic range of a species?
A
The interval of rock in which the species is found
4
Q
A biostratigraphic unit is a body of rock defined or characterized by its _____
A
Index fossil content
5
Q
Define index fossils and list what makes a good one.
A
Index fossils are remains of ancient organisms that are useful for relative age dating and biostratigraphic correlations.
They must have:
- Distinguishable morphological characteristics
- Hard shells
- Abundant in number
- Widespread geographically
- Restricted stratigraphic range
- Independent of facies control
6
Q
Read the class notes over!
A
Do it!
