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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 s... 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
In which layer (1 to 5) would you expect to find the oldest group of fossils?
Answer
You would expect to find the oldest group of fossils in layer 5. This is because layers of sedimentary rock are formed over time, with the oldest layers lying at the bottom. Therefore, as a general rule in geology, the deeper you go, the older the fossils.
Step 2
Describe two features of a fossil that would make it useful as an index fossil.
Answer
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Distinctive and Easily Recognizable: An index fossil must be easily identifiable and should have distinctive features that make it stand out from other fossils. This ensures that geologists can quickly recognize the fossil within rock layers.
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Wide Geographic Distribution: An effective index fossil should be found in many different parts of the world. This wide distribution helps scientists correlate the ages of the rock layers across different locations and provides a more accurate dating method.
Step 3
Outline one other method that the scientists could use to date the fossils in the oldest layer within the cave.
Answer
One acceptable method for dating fossils is the use of radioactive isotopes, such as potassium-argon or uranium-lead dating. This technique measures the decay of radioactive isotopes found in surrounding rock layers, allowing scientists to estimate the age of the fossils more accurately.