Question

Which of these statements is NOT true of relative dating? A) Relative dating uses the sequence of rock layers to establish age. B) Relative dating often uses index fossils to establish ages of layers. C) Relative dating gives an estimate of age based on the relationship between layers. D) Relative dating depends on the use of radioactive isotopes to give exact ages of layers.

Answer 1

Out of all given choices, “Relative dating depends on the use of radioactive isotopes to give exact ages of layers” the statement is not true of relative dating.

Answer: Option D

Explanation:

Relative dating is the determination of sequencing the events in a relative order of past with giving reference to any age information regarding the event. For example, dating with help of rock layer sequencing, using index fossils or any layer of sequenced sedimentation. Therefore, absolute or exact age determination is not an essential of relative dating.

All the other three options as given are true statements for the relative dating. The option D is incorrect statement because of the fact that relative dating does not talks about the determination of exact ages in any aspect. Like, Option A is correct as using rock layering sequence is one of the method of relative dating.