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The diagram above represents the cone-shaped pile within the cave - VCE - SSCE Biology - Question 9 - 2004 - Paper 1
Question 9
The diagram above represents the cone-shaped pile within the cave. a. In which layer (1 to 5) would you expect to find the oldest group of fossils? b. Scientists... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:The diagram above represents the cone-shaped pile within the cave - VCE - SSCE Biology - Question 9 - 2004 - Paper 1
Step 1
Step 2
Describe two features of a fossil that would make it useful as an index fossil.
Answer
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An index fossil should be distinctive and easily recognizable, allowing for easy identification in rock layers.
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The index fossil should be abundant, meaning it appears in large numbers within the geological record, facilitating its use in correlating ages across different locations.
Step 3
Outline one other method that the scientists could use to date the fossils in the oldest layer within the cave.
Answer
One method scientists could use is radioactive isotopes, such as potassium-argon or uranium-lead dating. These isotopes allow for dating by measuring the decay of the isotopes within the rock surrounding the fossils.