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In 1877, German workers found a slab of stone containing the fossil of an ancient bird form - VCE - SSCE Biology - Question 4 - 2009 - Paper 1
Question 4
In 1877, German workers found a slab of stone containing the fossil of an ancient bird form. The fossil bird was called Archaeopteryx. a. i. Describe how this foss... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:In 1877, German workers found a slab of stone containing the fossil of an ancient bird form - VCE - SSCE Biology - Question 4 - 2009 - Paper 1
Step 1
i. Describe how this fossil could have been formed.
Answer
Fossils like Archaeopteryx can form through a process called fossilization, which usually begins when an organism, such as a bird, dies and is quickly covered by sediment. This quick burial helps protect the remains from decay and scavengers.
Over time, additional layers of sediment build up over the remains, creating pressure. This pressure, coupled with chemical processes, transforms the organic material into sedimentary rock, preserving the shape and structure of the organism. Indeed, in some cases, minerals from the surrounding water can replace organic material, leading to a detailed stone replica of the original organism.
Step 2
ii. Explain how such sequencing is possible.
Answer
Sequencing of fossils into an evolutionary timeline is possible through stratigraphy and relative dating techniques. By examining the layers of sedimentary rock in which fossils are found, scientists can determine the relative ages of different species. Typically, the deeper the stratum, the older the fossils it contains.
Additionally, by studying the morphological characteristics of the fossils and comparing them with present-day species, scientists can infer evolutionary relationships. This comparative analysis aids in understanding the changes and adaptations that occurred over time, allowing for a timeline of evolutionary progression based on observed traits and extinct species.