Compare and contrast relative versus absolute dating as they are used to study rocks.

'Relative Dating' and 'Absolute Dating' in the discipline of Petrology (study of rocks) can be compared on three different parameters, viz. method, procedure and merits and demerits.

Explanation:

Method:

In relative dating, the age of a rock is calculated by comparing it to the age of other reference rock. Whereas, in absolute dating, the age of the rock is individually calculated through various scientific processes.

Procedure:

The procedure of relative dating majorly consists of a comparison between the fossil's layer of origin and the orientation of the reference fossil or rock. The procedure of absolute dating is based on determining the quantity of radioactive and non-radioactive isotopes present in the rock.

Merits and demerits:

Relative dating is comparatively less expensive, but it usually fails to deliver the exact static data related to the age of the rock. Whereas, the method of absolute dating does give out the exact age of the rock, but it proves to be an expensive method overall.

Absolute dating involves determining the exact age of a fossil or rock using radiometric methods while relative dating involves comparing which rock/fossil is younger or older than the other without necessarily determining the exact age. Relative dating is significant in determining geological events order.