Chapter 15.2, Problem 2MI

Summary Introduction

To define:

The given word “fossil” using a book or a dictionary

Introduction: Darwin gave a new theory of natural selection that could explain evolution of species. The theory of evolution states that all organisms on earth have a common ancestor. There are many evidences that suggest this; such as structural adaptations, fossil records, comparative anatomy, embryology, biochemistry, geographical distribution etc.

Answer to Problem 2MI

Fossil- A fossil is any preserved remains of an organism or its activities.

Explanation of Solution

A fossil is any preserved evidence of an organism. Plants, animals and even bacteria can form fossils. More than 99 percent of the species that existed have become extinct. Only a small percentage of these organisms are preserved as fossils. Fossils provide most significant evidence of evolutionary change. They provide record of species that lived long ago and help in comparing species of today with ancient species. They help in determining ancestry of organisms and patterns of evolution.

For example some dinosaur fossils show feathers of modern birds and teeth and bony tails of reptiles. This not only suggested that dinosaurs could be classified as birds but also suggested that birds retained some features of dinosaurs.