A geologist examines a rock outcrop, which is an area where horizontal layers of sediment from deep within Earth have been exposed. She notices that one layer contains materials that look like they belong near water. This layer contains smooth rocks and bits of sand that look like they were worn down over time. How could the geologist use this information to determine the age and environment of the rock

by recognizing that the layers below it are older and that the layers above it are younger

Explanation:

A geologist determining the age of the rock can use the law of superposition for estimating the age of the rock. The law of superposition is fundamental in interpreting the age of the earth as it provides the relative age of any rock layers at any location.

In the context, the geologist can identify and determine the environment and the age of the rock layer by recognizing the layers below it are older rocks and the layers above it are younger using the law of superposition.