Here's why:
* Sedimentation: Rocks are formed over time through the accumulation of sediments. As new sediments are deposited, they bury the older layers beneath them.
* Time: The layers at the bottom were deposited first, making them the oldest. The layers at the top were deposited last, making them the youngest.
Important Note: This principle applies to undisturbed formations. Geological processes like faulting, folding, and erosion can disrupt rock layers and make it difficult to determine their relative ages.