Question

Why do scientists use the fossil record as evidence for the scientific theory of evolution?

1) The fossil record provides evidence of all species that have ever existed.
2) The fossil record provides evidence that extinct species share similarities with current species.
3) The fossil record provides evidence that all extinct species became fossilized at the same time.
4) The fossil record provides evidence of extinct species that are genetically identical to current species.

Answer 1

The fossil record is used as evidence for the scientific theory of evolution because it provides a record of all species that have ever existed, shows similarities between extinct and current species, and allows scientists to observe the evolution of form over time.

Step-by-step explanation:

The fossil record is used as evidence for the scientific theory of evolution for several reasons:

1. It provides evidence of all species that have ever existed, allowing scientists to observe the diversity and changes in species over time.
2. It shows that extinct species share similarities with current species, indicating common ancestry and evolutionary relationships.
3. It does not provide evidence that all extinct species became fossilized at the same time. Fossilization is a rare process and not all organisms become fossils.
4. It does not provide evidence of extinct species that are genetically identical to current species. Evolution occurs through genetic changes and the development of new traits over time.

In conclusion, the fossil record is a valuable tool for scientists to study and understand the process of evolution.