Sequence Earth History Practice Test

A simplified rock column is shown below (top is youngest; bottom is oldest). This sequence shows relative order of events, not exact time.

Rock column (top → bottom):

1. Layer A: Sandstone (no fossils)

— wavy line labeled X: erosion surface (a gap)

1. Layer B: Shale with fossil symbol ★ (shell fossil)

2. Layer C: Basalt lava flow (volcanic layer)

3. Layer D: Limestone with fossil symbol ▲ (coral fossil)

Which event happened first in the sequence shown?

A simplified timeline of local events is shown from left (earlier) to right (later). This is relative order, not exact time.

Earlier → Later

1 Mud deposited with Fossil W (worm burrows)

2 Volcanic ash falls (Ash Layer)

3 Erosion removes some rock (erosion surface)

4 Sand deposited with Fossil V (shells)

Which statement is not supported by the sequence?