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Cross-section of geological strata illustrating rock layers, a fault, and groundwater.

Diagram showing geological layers with labeled rock formations A, B, C, D, and E, including a fault line and water table.

Diagram showing geological layers with labeled rock formations A, B, C, D, and E, including a fault line and water table.

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Show Answer Key & Explanations Step-by-step solution for: Relative Ages of Rocks | CK-12 Foundation

Problem Description:


The image provided is a cross-sectional diagram of the Earth's surface, showing different layers and geological features. The task is to identify and explain the components labeled as A, B, C, D, and E.

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Solution:



#### Step 1: Analyze the Image
The image depicts a cross-section of the Earth's surface, including soil, rock layers, groundwater, and a fault line. Each labeled component corresponds to a specific geological or environmental feature. Let us identify them one by one:

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#### Step 2: Identify Each Component

1. Component A:
- Location: The topmost layer above the solid rock.
- Description: This layer is porous and contains small holes (indicated by dots), which suggests it is capable of holding water. It is also the layer where vegetation (trees) is growing.
- Identification: This is the soil layer. Soil is the uppermost layer of the Earth's crust, composed of weathered rock and organic matter. It supports plant life and stores water.

2. Component B:
- Location: Below the soil layer (A) and above the groundwater (C).
- Description: This layer is shown as solid, uniform blocks, indicating it is a hard, compact rock formation.
- Identification: This is the bedrock. Bedrock is the solid rock that underlies the soil and other unconsolidated materials. It forms the foundation for the overlying layers.

3. Component C:
- Location: Below the bedrock (B) and within the dashed blue area.
- Description: This area is filled with wavy lines, representing water. It is located below the bedrock and is not part of the soil layer.
- Identification: This is the groundwater table or aquifer. Groundwater is water stored in the pores and fractures of underground rocks and soils. The dashed blue area represents the saturated zone where all pore spaces are filled with water.

4. Component D:
- Location: A diagonal line cutting through the soil (A), bedrock (B), and groundwater (C).
- Description: This line is jagged and does not follow the natural layers of the Earth. It appears to be a disruption in the rock structure.
- Identification: This is a fault line. Faults are fractures in the Earth's crust where there has been significant displacement of rock on either side of the fracture. The jagged nature of the line indicates movement along the fault.

5. Component E:
- Location: Above the soil layer (A).
- Description: This is the open space above the ground, where trees are present.
- Identification: This is the atmosphere. The atmosphere is the layer of gases surrounding the Earth, providing an environment for life and influencing weather and climate.

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#### Step 3: Summarize the Identifications
- A: Soil layer
- B: Bedrock
- C: Groundwater table (or aquifer)
- D: Fault line
- E: Atmosphere

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Final Answer:


\[
\boxed{
\text{A: Soil layer, B: Bedrock, C: Groundwater table, D: Fault line, E: Atmosphere}
}
\]
Parent Tip: Review the logic above to help your child master the concept of relative ages of rocks worksheet.
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