Question

The diagram below represents a section of undisturbed layers of sedimentary rock. It shows the location of fossils of several closely related species. According to currently accepted evolutionary theory, which is the most probable assumption about species A, B, and C?

• A. Species B is more abundant than species C
• B. Species C existed before species B
• C. Species A and B are genetically identical
• D. Species B descended from species A.

Answer 1

Answer: (A), (B)

The correct options are
A

Species B is more abundant than species C

B

Species C existed before species B

Species A is the most recent species because it is located on top. As time goes on, debris falls on the ground covering these organisms, turning them into fossils. The further down, the older the fossils. Fossils present in different layers of soil provide the geological time scales.