Stratigraphic section

[1] Biostratigraphers estimate the age of stratigraphic sections by using the faunal assemblages contained within rock samples from outcrop and drill cores.

[2] Geochronologists precisely date rocks within the stratigraphic section to provide better absolute bounds on the timing and rates of deposition.

Other scientists perform stable-isotope studies on the rocks to gain information about past climate.

[4] Stratigraphic sections can also be used to locate areas for water, coal, and hydrocarbon extraction, particularly petroleum and natural gas.

A Global Boundary Stratotype Section and Point (GSSP) is an internationally agreed upon reference point on a stratigraphic section which defines the lower boundaries of stages on the geologic time scale.