👉 Fossil math, also known as paleontological dating or biostratigraphy, is a method used to determine the relative age of rock layers and fossils by analyzing the fossil content within them. This technique relies on the principle of faunal succession, which states that different species of organisms lived during distinct geological periods. By identifying and comparing fossil assemblages in rock layers, scientists can correlate the age of those layers across different geographic locations. Common methods include relative dating using index fossils—species that existed for short, well-defined periods and were widespread—relative dating through stratigraphic correlation, and radiometric dating for absolute age determination. This approach helps construct a timeline of Earth's history, revealing the sequence of life forms and geological events over millions of years.
