Question

Compare and contrast relative versus absolute dating as they are used to study rocks.

Answer 1

'Relative Dating' and 'Absolute Dating' in the discipline of Petrology (study of rocks) can be compared on three different parameters, viz. method, procedure and merits and demerits.

Step-by-step explanation:

Method:

• In relative dating, the age of a rock is calculated by comparing it to the age of other reference rock.

• Whereas, in absolute dating, the age of the rock is individually calculated through various scientific processes.

Procedure:

• The procedure of relative dating majorly consists of a comparison between the fossil's layer of origin and the orientation of the reference fossil or rock.

• The procedure of absolute dating is based on determining the quantity of radioactive and non-radioactive isotopes present in the rock.

Merits and demerits:

• Relative dating is comparatively less expensive, but it usually fails to deliver the exact static data related to the age of the rock.

• Whereas, the method of absolute dating does give out the exact age of the rock, but it proves to be an expensive method overall.

Answer 2

Absolute dating involves determining the exact age of a fossil or rock using radiometric methods while relative dating involves comparing which rock/fossil is younger or older than the other without necessarily determining the exact age. Relative dating is significant in determining geological events order.