FLASHCARDS SC.7.L.15.1

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What is a fossil?

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Fossils are preserved remains or traces of organisms that lived in the past, such as bones, shells, or imprints.

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How do fossils support the theory of evolution?

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Fossils show changes in species over time and provide evidence of common ancestors.

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What is the scientific theory of evolution?

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The theory that species change over time through processes like natural selection and adaptation.

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What does the fossil record show?

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The fossil record shows a timeline of life on Earth, demonstrating progression from simple to more complex organisms.

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What are transitional fossils?

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Fossils that show intermediate traits between ancestral and descendant species, highlighting evolutionary changes.

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What is an example of a transitional fossil?

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Archaeopteryx, which has features of both dinosaurs and birds.

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How do scientists use fossils to determine evolutionary relationships?

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By comparing similarities and differences in fossil structures to identify common ancestry.

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Why is the age of fossils important?

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Knowing the age helps scientists understand the sequence of evolutionary events.

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How do fossils demonstrate that living things evolved from earlier species?

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Fossils show gradual changes in traits over time, linking modern species to ancient ancestors.