Question

Several teeth were found in an area of flat land covered with trees and plants. The teeth were examined by a paleontologist, and it was determined that the teeth came from a shark. They found many other shark teeth in this area. However, the people who discovered the teeth were puzzled. There was no source of water near where the fossils were found.

What is the paleontologist's BEST explanation for why the teeth were found in this area?
Responses
A Sharks used to live on flat land.Sharks used to live on flat land.
B This area was once covered with salt water.This area was once covered with salt water.
C This area was once covered with freshwater.This area was once covered with freshwater.
D Someone buried the shark teeth deep in the ground.Someone buried the shark teeth deep in the ground.

Answer 1

B

The presence of many shark teeth as fossils indicates the area was once a marine environment. Over geologic time seas can retreat or land can uplift, leaving former sea beds as dry land. Options A and D are implausible, and C is less likely because most sharks are marine (saltwater).