Scientists are able to ‘read’ layers of sedimentary rock by using a technique called relative dating. This animated video demonstrates how sedimentary rock features, like the cliffs near Whanganui, were formed, stacked, eroded and tilted by tectonic movement before new rocks were formed on top.
This animated video is part of the Rock layers and relative dating activity, watch it after trying the Relative rock layers interactive.
Note that this video does not have a voiceover.