Final answer:
The question involves using a geologic map to match the ages of rock units with their geographic regions. Different colors and labels on the map signify distinct geological periods and rock formations. Labels for specific formations reflect both geological period and formation name, aiding in identifying potential fossil-rich areas.
Step-by-step explanation:
The student's question involves matching the ages of rock units with the appropriate region by creating a geologic map. This is done by using different colors to represent the rock age of each geologic unit, drawing lines to denote contact points between different rock types, and labeling each formation according to its geological period and formation name. For example, on a map, the Cretaceous Period might be represented in green and the Quaternary deposits in yellow. Labels such as 'Pk' for the Permian Kaibab Formation and 'Mr' for the Mississippian Redwall Formation would be used to denote specific formations. Geologic maps are based on a topographic map and include various lines and symbols, like thin black contact lines between different rock units, to provide clarity into the geological history of an area.
In a practical application, if the student is suggesting looking for fossils, areas on the map where sedimentary rocks are present would be more likely to contain fossils, especially if the sediments are from a time period known to have abundant life forms. The student would use the map's color coding and time scale to find the right locations to search for fossils, considering the environment the fossil-laden organism once lived in and the age of the stratigraphic unit.