Question

How does the plate tectonics theory help explain the existence of fossil marine life in rocks on top of compressional mountains?

Answer 1

The theory of plate tectonics states that that earth's crust is divided into plates that float on the semi-molten mantle below. Plates converge, diverge or slide past each other. Converging plates are responsible for the existence of fossil marine life in rocks on top of compressional mountains. Marine life gets deposited and buried in sediments in oceanic basins. As plates move together these layers of sedimentary rocks get folded and faulted upwards as the forces of compression become greater. Over time rocks are uplifted into impressive fold mountain ranges. This explains why fossil rocks are found on top of the Himalayas.