stratification of
rocks
Most Essential Learning Competency
Describe how layers of rocks (stratified rocks) are formed. (MELC
S11/12ES-Ie-25).
objectives
✓ explain how the stratified layers of rocks are formed;
✓ describe the different principles in the stratification of rocks;
✓ apply principles in stratigraphy in describing rock layers; and
✓ discuss how stratified rocks are useful in studying Earth’s
history.
stratification
- the layering of most sedimentary rocks, and in
some instances, igneous and metamorphic rocks
stratification
stratum (plural: strata) – layer
stratigraphy - the branch of geology that studies
these rock layers and their
relationship with the geologic time
stratification
• Processes involved in stratification:
erosion
deposition
compaction
cementation
principles of stratification
Nicolas Steno
- one of the founders of
modern stratigraphy
- formulated the following
important principles in
the said field
principles of stratification
Principle of Superposition
It states that sediment
layers are deposited in
sequence – the lowest
stratum (or layer) are
always the oldest while the
layers above it are younger.
principles of stratification
Principle of Cross-Cutting Relationships
Deformation in the strata
like folds, faults and
igneous intrusions that cut
across rocks are younger
than the rocks that they
D cut across.
principles of stratification
Principle of Original Horizontality
It states that strata are
originally deposited in a
horizontal manner.
B
principles of stratification
Principle of Lateral Continuity
It states that sediment layers
are spread out continuously
in all directions, unless some
obstacles, like ridge, prevent
them from spreading further.
C
principles of stratification
Principle of Inclusion
states that any rock fragments that
are included in rock must be older
than the rock in which they are
included. For example, a xenolith in an
igneous rock or a clast in sedimentary
rock must be older than the rock that
includes it (Figure 4)
principles of stratification
Principle of Faunal Succession
states that rock layers that contain
fossils can be used to identify and
correlate rocks. Sedimentary rock
strata contain fossilized flora and
fauna, and that these fossils succeed
each other vertically in a specific,
reliable order that can be identified
over wide horizontal distances.
