Scientists examine fossils from three different animals. They determine that all three animals share similar structures and record their observations as follows: Animal A and animal B have somewhat similar structures. Animal A and animal C have very similar structures. Animal B and animal C have very similar structures. The scientists use the similarities to determine the order in which the fossils should appear in the fossil record. Based on the scientists’ observations, which order is the most reasonable? (1 point) Responses A, B, C A, B, C B, A, C B, A, C C, B, A C, B, A A, C, B

Answer 1

Based on the observations that Animal A and Animal C have very similar structures, and Animal B and Animal C also have very similar structures, while Animal A and Animal B have only somewhat similar structures, it makes sense to infer a relationship among the organisms. The most reasonable order of the fossils in the fossil record would generally place the most similar organisms closer together.

Since Animal A and C are very similar, and both have very similar structures with B, a likely scenario is that Animal C appeared most recently, followed by A, and then B. This helps to represent the relationships accurately.

Therefore, the best order from the given options is:

C, A, B

(Animal C appearing first, then A, and finally B).

However, if "C, A, B" is not one of the options, we can look at similar arrangements. The option A, C, B also makes logical sense since it indicates that A and C are more closely related than B.

Based on the relationships outlined, the final reasonable answer from your options is:

A, C, B.