How can fossiliferous sedimentary rock most easily be dated and correlated if they lack the most diagnostic index fossil for that period or epoch?
A)by performing radiometric dating like U-238/Pb-206 or C-14 on fossils
B)by using the entire fossil assemblage and ranges for the two localities in question
C)by mapping out the intervening contacts or drilling a series of boreholes between
D)by paying a geologist to tell you the answer

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

If the sedimentary rock lacks the most diagnostic index fossil for that period or epoch, radiometric dating (A) may not be effective because it requires the presence of certain isotopes in the fossils. Mapping out the intervening contacts or drilling a series of boreholes (C) may also not be necessary or practical. Therefore, using the entire fossil assemblage and ranges for the two localities in question (B) is the best option for correlating and dating fossiliferous sedimentary rocks. This involves comparing the groupings of fossils found in the rocks and determining their age range based on known geologic time scales.

How Can Fossiliferous Sedimentary Rock Most Easily Be Dated and Correlated