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

Question

Group of answer choices

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

more fossils of the same species found in several rock layers

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

several rock layers that do not contain fossils

Answer 1

The evidence from the fossil record that supports the observation that life changes over time includes:

1. Increased numbers of fossils of different species found in younger rock layers - This suggests that as time progresses, more species have emerged.

2. Fossils of distant relatives of a modern species found in ancient rock layers - This indicates evolutionary changes and the presence of ancestral forms, supporting the idea of descent with modification.

The other options do not provide strong evidence for changes in life over time:

• More fossils of the same species found in several rock layers - This may indicate the persistence of a species but does not directly address changes over time.

• Several rock layers that do not contain fossils - The absence of fossils in certain layers does not provide evidence for life changing; it simply could indicate episodes of non-deposition or environmental conditions that were not conducive to fossilization.

Thus, the correct answers would be the first and third options.