QuestionJune 6, 2025

Question 2 How can scientists use the fossil record to find evidence of relationships between different species? square Space used(includes formatting): 0/30000

Question 2 How can scientists use the fossil record to find evidence of relationships between different species? square Space used(includes formatting): 0/30000
Question 2
How can scientists use the fossil record to find evidence of relationships between different species?
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Space used(includes formatting): 0/30000

Solution
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Answer

Scientists use the fossil record to find evidence of relationships between different species by examining physical characteristics, analyzing distribution, using radiometric dating, comparing DNA, and constructing phylogenetic trees. Explanation 1. Identify Fossil Characteristics Scientists examine physical characteristics of fossils, such as bone structure and size, to identify similarities between species. 2. Analyze Fossil Distribution They study the geographical distribution of fossils to understand how species might have migrated or evolved over time. 3. Use Radiometric Dating **Radiometric dating** helps determine the age of fossils, allowing scientists to place them in a timeline and observe evolutionary changes. 4. Compare DNA Evidence In some cases, scientists extract DNA from fossils to compare genetic material with living species, revealing evolutionary relationships. 5. Construct Phylogenetic Trees By combining fossil data with other evidence, scientists build phylogenetic trees that illustrate evolutionary relationships.

Explanation

1. Identify Fossil Characteristics<br /> Scientists examine physical characteristics of fossils, such as bone structure and size, to identify similarities between species.<br /><br />2. Analyze Fossil Distribution<br /> They study the geographical distribution of fossils to understand how species might have migrated or evolved over time.<br /><br />3. Use Radiometric Dating<br /> **Radiometric dating** helps determine the age of fossils, allowing scientists to place them in a timeline and observe evolutionary changes.<br /><br />4. Compare DNA Evidence<br /> In some cases, scientists extract DNA from fossils to compare genetic material with living species, revealing evolutionary relationships.<br /><br />5. Construct Phylogenetic Trees<br /> By combining fossil data with other evidence, scientists build phylogenetic trees that illustrate evolutionary relationships.
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