Question

Examine the data from the fossil record shown here. Which of these statements explains why the diversity of mammals increased exponentially after 65 million years ago?
Responses
A The increased ionizing radiation in the atmosphere increased the photosynthesis and food availability for mammals.The increased ionizing radiation in the atmosphere increased the photosynthesis and food availability for mammals.
B The increased temperatures on Earth provided the ability for mammals to have increased metabolism and survival.The increased temperatures on Earth provided the ability for mammals to have increased metabolism and survival.
C The shrinking of the oceans likely left more exposed land on which mammals diversified.The shrinking of the oceans likely left more exposed land on which mammals diversified.
D The extinction of the dinosaurs 65 million years ago left unfilled niches for mammals.

Answers

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Answered by GPT-4o mini
The correct response is:

**D** The extinction of the dinosaurs 65 million years ago left unfilled niches for mammals.

This statement explains the significant increase in mammal diversity after the mass extinction event that wiped out the dinosaurs, as it allowed mammals to exploit new ecological niches and evolve into a variety of forms suitable for different environments.

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