Definition

The principle in geology that states in a series of layered rocks, the oldest layers are at the bottom and the younger layers are on top.

Example

According to the principle of superposition, the oldest rock layers are found beneath the newer ones.

Conversation

I was reading about geology, and they mentioned the concept of superposition.

Oh really? What does that mean exactly?

It basically says that in a stack of sedimentary rocks, the oldest layers are at the bottom due to superposition.

That's a cool way to understand how the earth's layers formed!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Superposition → It is formed from "super-" (meaning above or over) and "positio" (from the Latin "ponere", meaning to place). The word refers to the act of placing something over or above another, often used in contexts like physics to describe overlapping states or conditions.

Memory Tip

Think of something being 'placed above' ('super-') another thing — that's what superposition means.

Visually Confused Words