Multiple Choice
Which fossil is found on the greatest number of landmasses, providing key evidence for the theory of continental drift?
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24. History of Life on Earth
The Fossil Record
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Which of the following would you think is most easily found as a fossil by a paleontologist?
A
A tiger skeleton.
B
A mineralized leaf.
C
An early prokaryote.
D
A shark tooth.
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand what fossils are: Fossils are the preserved remains or traces of organisms that lived in the past. They can include bones, teeth, shells, and imprints.
Consider the conditions required for fossilization: Fossilization typically requires rapid burial and the presence of minerals that can replace organic material, preserving the structure.
Evaluate the durability of different materials: Hard materials like bones and teeth are more likely to fossilize because they are less prone to decay and can withstand environmental pressures over time.
Analyze the options given: A tiger skeleton, mineralized leaf, and early prokaryote are less likely to be preserved as fossils compared to a shark tooth, which is hard and durable.
Conclude why a shark tooth is most easily found as a fossil: Shark teeth are composed of dentin and enamel, which are highly resistant to decay and can be preserved for millions of years, making them common in the fossil record.
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