Questions: Multiple Choice Question Which principle of relative dating can be used to determine when the minerals associated with the granite intrusion in the diagram formed? Cross-cutting relations Superposition Original horizontality Inclusions

The answer is the first one (or A): Cross-cutting relations.

Explanation for each option:

1. Cross-cutting relations: This principle states that a geological feature (such as a fault or intrusion) that cuts across another feature must be younger than the feature it cuts. In the context of the granite intrusion, the minerals associated with the intrusion must have formed after the intrusion itself cut through the surrounding rock layers. Therefore, this principle can be used to determine the relative age of the minerals.

2. Superposition: This principle states that in an undisturbed sequence of sedimentary rocks, the oldest layers are at the bottom and the youngest are at the top. While useful for determining the relative ages of sedimentary layers, it does not directly apply to the formation of minerals associated with a granite intrusion.

3. Original horizontality: This principle states that layers of sediment are originally deposited horizontally. It helps in understanding the original deposition of sedimentary layers but does not provide information about the relative age of minerals associated with an intrusion.

4. Inclusions: This principle states that any rock fragments included within another rock must be older than the rock containing them. While this can help determine the relative age of the fragments within the granite, it does not directly address the formation of minerals associated with the intrusion itself.

Summary: The principle of cross-cutting relations is the most relevant for determining when the minerals associated with the granite intrusion formed, as it indicates that the intrusion (and thus the minerals) must be younger than the rocks it cuts through.