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 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 - incorrect

Scientists cannot use the fossil record as evidence for mass extinction events.
Scientists cannot use the fossil record as evidence for mass extinction events. - no response given

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 - no response given

Evidence of a volcanic eruption like igneous rock deposits or atmospheric changes

1 answer

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 indicates a significant loss of biodiversity and the arrival of new species, which are characteristic signs of mass extinction events.