According to the law of lateral continuity, what happens to layers of rock?

The law of lateral continuity states that layers of sedimentary rock are originally deposited in continuous sheets or strata that extend in all horizontal directions until they thin out or "pinch" out. This means that sediments are laid down in a flat, uniform manner, and unless disrupted by geological events like erosion or faulting, the layers can be traced over long distances. The concept is crucial for understanding stratigraphy and interpreting the geological history of an area, as it helps geologists predict the location of rock layers based on the presence of nearby layers.

In contrast to this, options that refer to contraction due to pressure, remaining constant over time, or becoming metamorphic do not align with the principles of lateral continuity. The emphasis of lateral continuity is on the vast, horizontal spread of these layers until they encounter a barrier or dissipate.