Final answer:
Relative dating is used to sequence rocks and geologic events by their order of formation without knowing their exact numeric ages, differing from absolute dating which provides specific numerical ages.
Step-by-step explanation:
Relative dating is the method of placing rocks and geological events in sequence without knowing their exact ages, unlike absolute dating which involves determining numerical ages using radioactive isotopes. In the study of earth's history, geologists employ relative dating to establish a chronological order of events by examining rock formations and the presence of fossils, using principles such as the law of superposition and cross-cutting relationships.
Relative dating methods are crucial in determining the relative ages of fossils, leading to an understanding of the rate of speciation of early organisms. Although relative dating allows scientists to establish a sequence of events, it does not provide a specific numerical age like absolute dating does.
Relative dating can be particularly useful in the field where rapid and cost-effective analysis is required, and it is applicable to various rock types. However, absolute dating remains the preferred method for ascertaining the precise age of specific rocks or geological events.