kivikerrostumien

Kivikerrostumat, often referred to as rock strata or geological layers, are horizontal or nearly horizontal deposits of sedimentary rock that accumulate over time. These layers form when sediments such as sand, silt, mud, and organic material are deposited by wind, water, or ice, and then compacted and cemented together. Each stratum represents a distinct period of deposition, preserving a snapshot of the environmental conditions and life forms present at that time.

The study of kivikerrostumat, known as stratigraphy, is fundamental to understanding Earth's history. By examining the order, composition, and characteristics of these layers, geologists can reconstruct past environments, determine the relative ages of rock formations, and identify the sequence of geological events. Fossils found within specific strata provide crucial evidence for the evolution of life and the dating of rocks.

The principle of superposition states that in an undisturbed sequence of sedimentary rocks, the oldest layers are at the bottom, and the youngest layers are at the top. This principle, along with others like the principle of original horizontality and the principle of lateral continuity, allows for the interpretation of geological history. Deviations from these principles, such as folding or faulting, indicate subsequent geological disturbances. Kivikerrostumat are a vital archive of our planet's past, offering insights into climate change, geological processes, and the development of landscapes over millions of years.