Question

What evidence would suggest that a fossil found in a perfectly preserved cave, containing fossilized remains and early artifacts, belonged to a member of Homo erectus?

Answer 1

Physical characteristics, use of fire and artifacts, and cooperative behavior provide evidence that a fossil found in a cave belonged to Homo erectus.

Step-by-step explanation:

Based on the evidence provided, several factors suggest that a fossil found in a perfectly preserved cave, containing fossilized remains and early artifacts, belonged to a member of Homo erectus:

1. Physical characteristics: Homo erectus had a larger brain, similar to modern humans, ranging from 775 to 1,100 cubic centimeters. They also had a nose with downward-facing nostrils, similar to modern humans.
2. Use of fire and artifacts: Homo erectus is believed to be the first hominin species to use fire, hunt, and have a home base. Finding early artifacts and evidence of fire use in the cave would support the identification of the fossil as Homo erectus.
3. Cooperative behavior and care for the sick: Homo erectus likely lived in groups, cooperated in hunting and foraging, and cared for the sick and elderly. The discovery of huts, evidence of cooperation, and remains of individuals with debilitating diseases would indicate the presence of Homo erectus.