Question
When looking through the fossil record, what would scientists look for to conclude that a mass extinction had occurred at a certain point in the fossil record?(1 point)
Responses
Evidence of a volcanic eruption like igneous rock deposits or atmospheric changes
Evidence of a volcanic eruption like igneous rock deposits or atmospheric changes
A dramatic change in the number and types of fossils from one layer to the next
A dramatic change in the number and types of fossils from one layer to the next
Evidence of a meteor strike like an impact crater or other evidence of a meteor strike
Evidence of a meteor strike like an impact crater or other evidence of a meteor strike
Scientists cannot use the fossil record as evidence for mass extinction events.
Responses
Evidence of a volcanic eruption like igneous rock deposits or atmospheric changes
Evidence of a volcanic eruption like igneous rock deposits or atmospheric changes
A dramatic change in the number and types of fossils from one layer to the next
A dramatic change in the number and types of fossils from one layer to the next
Evidence of a meteor strike like an impact crater or other evidence of a meteor strike
Evidence of a meteor strike like an impact crater or other evidence of a meteor strike
Scientists cannot use the fossil record as evidence for mass extinction events.
Answers
GPT-4o mini
To conclude that a mass extinction had occurred at a certain point in the fossil record, scientists would primarily look for **a dramatic change in the number and types of fossils from one layer to the next**. This change often indicates a significant loss of biodiversity and can signal the occurrence of a mass extinction event. Additionally, while evidence of catastrophic events like volcanic eruptions or meteor strikes can also support the conclusion of a mass extinction, the specific dramatic shifts in fossil diversity are key indicators within the fossil record itself.