Question
In 1861 paleontologists announced that they had found a fossil with feathers, now known as Archaeopteryx, which lived approximately 150 million years ago. When comparing Archaeopteryx to other small dinosaurs and modern-day birds, the paleontologists learned that Archaeopteryx had more in common with dinosaurs. The Archaeopteryx were small and had broad wings which likely gave them the ability to fly or glide. How can the Archaeopteryx fossils be used to support the theory of evolution?
(1 point)
Responses
They can demonstrate that animals from long ago are still alive today.
They can demonstrate that animals from long ago are still alive today.
They indicate that evolution is a theory because scientists do not completely understand the fossil record.
They indicate that evolution is a theory because scientists do not completely understand the fossil record.
They show how organisms today do not share characteristics with fossilized species.
They show how organisms today do not share characteristics with fossilized species.
They give evidence to support the idea that organisms inherit the best traits from their parents.
(1 point)
Responses
They can demonstrate that animals from long ago are still alive today.
They can demonstrate that animals from long ago are still alive today.
They indicate that evolution is a theory because scientists do not completely understand the fossil record.
They indicate that evolution is a theory because scientists do not completely understand the fossil record.
They show how organisms today do not share characteristics with fossilized species.
They show how organisms today do not share characteristics with fossilized species.
They give evidence to support the idea that organisms inherit the best traits from their parents.
Answers
GPT-4o mini
The most relevant response that supports the theory of evolution in relation to Archaeopteryx fossils is:
**They indicate that evolution is a theory because scientists do not completely understand the fossil record.**
However, the best choice aligned with demonstrating the evidence of evolution through Archaeopteryx would be a statement emphasizing its transitional features that illustrate the evolutionary link between dinosaurs and modern birds, although that specific response is not provided in the options given. In general, Archaeopteryx serves as a key example of a transitional fossil, showing traits of both reptiles (like dinosaurs) and birds, thus supporting the theory of evolution.
**They indicate that evolution is a theory because scientists do not completely understand the fossil record.**
However, the best choice aligned with demonstrating the evidence of evolution through Archaeopteryx would be a statement emphasizing its transitional features that illustrate the evolutionary link between dinosaurs and modern birds, although that specific response is not provided in the options given. In general, Archaeopteryx serves as a key example of a transitional fossil, showing traits of both reptiles (like dinosaurs) and birds, thus supporting the theory of evolution.