* Principle of Cross-Cutting Relationships: This fundamental principle in geology states that a geologic feature that cuts across another feature is younger than the feature it cuts.
* Sedimentary Layers: Sedimentary rocks are formed by the deposition of sediments over time. The layers on the bottom are older, and the layers on top are younger.
* Fault Formation: A fault forms when rocks break and move past each other. For the fault to cut across the sedimentary layers, the layers must have already existed.
In summary: The sedimentary layers formed first, and then the fault cut through them, making the fault the younger feature.
