Question

Archaeologists are working in a previously undisturbed dig site. A fossil is found at a depth of 5 meters, and a second fossil is found at a depth of 20 meters. When comparing the two fossils, which conclusion can the archaeologists most likely make?

a. The fossils are from different geological periods.
b. The fossils are of the same species.
c. The fossils are at the same depth.
d. The fossils have the same age.

Answer 1

Fossils found at different depths are likely from different geological periods due to the principle of archaeological stratification, suggesting different ages and potentially different species.

Step-by-step explanation:

Archaeologists can most likely conclude that fossils found at different depths, such as 5 meters and 20 meters, are from different geological periods. This is based on the principle of archaeological stratification, where lower layers are assumed to be older than those above them due to the way sediment accumulates over time. Therefore, the deeper a fossil is found, the older it is likely to be, and it is likely to represent a different period in the geological timeline.

The principle of archaeological stratification is also applied in the study of biology, particularly in paleontology, where researchers use this method to help date fossils and reconstruct past environments. The different depths indicate that the fossils will likely have different ages, and they might belong to different species or represent different stages in the evolutionary history of a species. This is because geological layers often represent different time periods, with significant environmental changes that could have influenced the evolution and survival of species.