A scientist finds the fossil of a marine (ocean) animal in Colorado, then finds a fossil of the same marine animal in Utah. What can the scientist conclude about both areas?

Answer 1

The discovery of the same marine animal fossil in both Colorado and Utah suggests that, during the time the animal lived, both areas were once part of a marine environment, such as an ocean or sea. This indicates that the climate and geological conditions of these regions were significantly different in the past compared to their current state. The findings imply that these areas were likely submerged under water at some point in geological history, supporting the idea of ancient marine transgressions or the presence of a large inland sea. Additionally, the fossils can provide insights into the distribution of marine life and the ecological conditions present in the region during the time of the animal's existence.