Interpreting Fossil Evidence

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What is the process by which radioactive elements break down into non-radioactive elements at a steady rate?

Fossilization

Half-life

Geologic time scale

Radioactive dating (correct)

What is the primary use of index fossils in geological research?

To study the evolution of species over time

To analyze the geological time scale

To determine the absolute age of rocks

To identify specific layers of rock in different geographic locations (correct)

What is the half-life of C14?

1,000 years

5,730 years (correct)

20,000 years

12,000 years

What is the primary purpose of the geologic time scale?

To represent evolutionary time Signup and view all the answers

What is the duration of the Paleozoic Era?

544 million years Signup and view all the answers

What event occurred approximately 12-15 billion years ago?

The Big Bang Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended approach if no fossil species are found near your area?

Search for a picture of a fossil species on the internet Signup and view all the answers

What is a key aspect of a fossil species' characteristics that should be covered in a research report?

Its evolutionary significance Signup and view all the answers

What is a key criterion for evaluating the quality of a research report on a fossil species?

The depth of research on the species' characteristics, evolutionary significance, and geological context Signup and view all the answers

What is an important aspect of a fossil species' geological context that should be explored in a research report?

All of the above Signup and view all the answers

What is a characteristic of a poor research report on a fossil species?

It lacks adequate research on the species' characteristics, evolutionary significance, and geological context Signup and view all the answers

What percentage of all species that have ever lived are extinct?

99% Signup and view all the answers

What is the process of minerals carried by water being deposited around a hard structure called?

Permineralization Signup and view all the answers

What type of fossils record the activity of an organism?

Trace Fossils Signup and view all the answers

What is the term for a living species that has remained unchanged for tens of millions of years?

Living Fossil Signup and view all the answers

What is the process of determining the age of a fossil by comparing its placement with that of fossils in other layers of rock called?

Relative Dating Signup and view all the answers

What type of fossil is formed when an entire organism becomes encased in material such as ice or volcanic ash?

Preserved Remains Signup and view all the answers

Interpreting Fossil Evidence

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