Relative dating techniques rely on logic and a solid understanding of basic principles of geology. The following relative dating principles allow scientists to make logical leaps in dating artifacts.

Learn what relative dating is in geology and how its used. Watch the video lesson and take the quiz to apply dating principles to rock layers and fossils.

Learn about relative dating vs. absolute dating. Discover similarities and differences between absolute and relative chronology and study the geologic time scale.

Explore absolute age dating. Learn the definition of absolute age dating and understand its different types. Discover various absolute dating examples.

Learn the definition of the relative age of rocks and understand how it differs from absolute age. See various relative age examples and find its principles.

Index fossils are vital components in relative dating —a method of determining the order of geological events without knowing their numerical dates.

Radiometric dating is a method of absolute dating, meaning the results give the exact age of an object. In stratigraphy, geologists also use relative dating.

Explore the principles of relative age of a rock in our engaging video lesson. Learn its dating techniques with examples and test your knowledge with a quiz!

Learn the definition of the law of superposition, what the law of superposition states, and how the law of superposition is applied with examples.

Test your knowledge of laws related to relative dating with this interactive quiz and printable worksheet. The practice questions can help you...