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When tectonic plates shift or when we find sea fossils in places like Utah, it can indeed complicate the process of dating the surrounding soil, rock, and fossils. This is because the geological processes can mix materials of different ages, making it challenging to determine the precise age of the fossils.

In the context of AP World History, understanding the geological context is crucial for interpreting historical and prehistorical events. The movement of tectonic plates can lead to the uplift of sea beds, which explains why sea fossils can be found in places that are now far from any ocean. This geological activity can result in older rocks being pushed to the surface, potentially surrounding younger fossils.

To accurately date fossils, scientists often use a combination of relative dating and absolute dating methods. Relative dating involves examining the stratigraphy, or the layers of rock, to understand the sequence of events. Absolute dating, such as radiometric dating, measures the decay of isotopes to determine an exact age. When the surrounding materials are older than the fossils themselves, scientists must carefully analyze the context and use multiple dating methods to ensure accuracy.