Which type of rocks can provide evidence of paleomagnetism?

Igneous rocks are the correct answer because they can retain the magnetic orientation of minerals that crystallize when the rock solidifies from molten magma. As igneous rocks form, minerals such as magnetite align with the Earth's magnetic field, locking in a record of the magnetic direction at that time. This process is known as thermoremanent magnetism.

When studying paleomagnetism, scientists analyze igneous rocks to understand the historical shifts in Earth’s magnetic field and continental movement over geological time frames. While metamorphic rocks can sometimes preserve magnetic information if formed under certain conditions involving previous igneous rock, they do not generally provide as clear a record as fresh igneous rocks, which are formed directly from magma.

Sedimentary rocks, although they can sometimes contain magnetic minerals, typically do not preserve the orientation of magnetic fields in the same way that igneous rocks do, making them less reliable for paleomagnetic studies. The idea that only ancient rock formations provide evidence is also misleading, as modern igneous rocks can provide valuable data as well. Thus, the strongest and most reliable evidence for paleomagnetism comes from igneous rocks.