Final answer:
The statement that fossils become heavier than the original organism is false. Fossils vary in their final weight and composition due to the differing conditions of fossilization. They provide critical evidence of past life and evolution.
Step-by-step explanation:
When considering the weight of fossils compared to the original organisms, the statement that fossils become heavier than the original organism is false. Fossils are the remains or traces of ancient life that have been preserved typically in rock. Through a variety of processes, including permineralization, replacement, and recrystallization, the organic materials within an organism are often replaced by minerals during the fossilization process. These minerals may indeed confer some weight to the structure of the fossil, but this does not necessarily make the fossil heavier than the original organism when it was alive. The specific conditions that lead to fossilization, such as tempreature, presure, and mineral composition, are crucial and can vary greatly, influencing the final weight and composition of the fossil.
Fossils, which are part of the fossil record, offer important evidence of past life and evolution. By studying fossils, we can ascertain the paleoenvironment and evolution of organisms over time. Paleontologists use this information to understand Earth's historical biodiversity, climate change, and even the possibility of life on other planets.