Why do scientists think the Grand Canyon was once covered by an ocean?(1 point)
Responses
The Grand Canyon is located along coastlines that likely flooded.
The Grand Canyon is located along coastlines that likely flooded.
The sedimentary rock type forming layers of the canyon formed under the sea.
The sedimentary rock type forming layers of the canyon formed under the sea.
Seawater has been found seeping up through the canyon floor.
Seawater has been found seeping up through the canyon floor.
Only an ocean would have the strength to erode the rock forming the Grand
Canyon.
Canyon.
Canyon to its current depth.
Only an ocean would have the strength to erode the rock forming the Grand Canyon to its current depth.
Scientists believe that the Grand Canyon was once covered by an ocean based on several factors. One reason is that the Grand Canyon is located along coastlines that likely experienced flooding in the past. This suggests that the area was once underwater.
Another piece of evidence is the type of rock found in the Grand Canyon. The layers of sedimentary rock that make up the canyon were formed under the sea. Certain rock formations, such as limestone and sandstone, are typically found in marine environments, further supporting the theory that the Grand Canyon was once submerged.
Additionally, there have been observations of seawater seeping up through the canyon floor. This indicates that there is a connection between the ocean and the deep layers of the canyon.
Finally, the sheer depth and size of the Grand Canyon suggest that it was carved out by a powerful force. Only an ocean would have the strength and capacity to erode the rock over millions of years to create such a vast and dramatic landscape.
Overall, while scientists cannot directly observe the past geological events, they use various lines of evidence such as geological formations, rock types, and geographical locations to develop theories about the history of the Grand Canyon.