Final answer:
Fossilised remains or traces show the existence of ancient organisms and provide evidence for evolution and extinction. Fossils offer glimpses into life forms that may no longer exist and help scientists understand the history of life on Earth.
Step-by-step explanation:
Fossilised Remains and Their Indications
Fossilised remains or traces of organisms indicate a window into the past, particularly concerning life that existed during specific periods of time. Fossils are the preserved remains or traces of organisms that lived long ago. These can include bones, teeth, and impressions left behind in the sediment. Analysis of these fossils provides evidence of evolution, allowing us to see the gradual changes over time. For instance, the comparison of fossils throughout different layers of earth's strata can show a clear progression and sometimes the apparent extinction of certain species.
Critical Thinking: When considering evidence that suggests fossilized organisms might be extinct, we look at the uniqueness of the remains or traces compared to living organisms. Extinction is a common occurrence, with an estimated 99% of all species that ever lived on Earth no longer existing. Features from fossils that do not appear in any living species are a strong indication that those organisms are now extinct. The fossil record, although incomplete, is rich with examples of species that have left no known living descendants.
Fossils allow scientists to piece together the story of life on Earth and show the evolution of form over millions of years. By studying these records, we can observe the morphology of ancient species and compare them with modern ones, providing clues to understand how various species, including humans and horses, have evolved. Moreover, certain conditions are needed for fossils to form, such as quick burial by sediments or preservation in unique environments, which makes them rare and extremely valuable for scientific studies.