What evidence from the fossil record supports the observation that life changes over time? Select all that apply.

Question

Group of answer choices

fossils of distant relatives of a modern species found in ancient rock layers

more fossils of the same species found in several rock layers

several rock layers that do not contain fossils

increased numbers of fossils of different species found in younger rock layers

Answer 1

The following options provide evidence from the fossil record that supports the observation that life changes over time:

1. Fossils of distant relatives of a modern species found in ancient rock layers - This supports the idea of common ancestry and evolutionary change over time.

2. Increased numbers of fossils of different species found in younger rock layers - This indicates that life has diversified and evolved over time, with more species appearing as geological time progresses.

The other options do not directly support the observation of change over time:

• More fossils of the same species found in several rock layers - This may indicate stability or persistence of a species over time rather than change.

• Several rock layers that do not contain fossils - The absence of fossils does not provide evidence of change; it merely indicates a lack of fossil preservation or biological activity in those layers.

Therefore, the correct selections are the first and fourth options: "fossils of distant relatives of a modern species found in ancient rock layers" and "increased numbers of fossils of different species found in younger rock layers."