VI) Why would a wolf make a better fossil than a worm? A) large organisms fossilize better than small ones B) soft tissues make good fossils C) hard parts like bones and teeth are less likely to be broken down quickly D) fur fossilizes well

Question

VI) Why would a wolf make a better fossil than a worm? A) large organisms fossilize better than small ones B) soft tissues make good fossils C) hard parts like bones and teeth are less likely to be broken down quickly D) fur fossilizes well

Answer 1

**C) hard parts like bones and teeth are less likely to be broken down quickly**Here's why:* **Hard parts vs. Soft parts:** Worms are soft-bodied invertebrates. Soft tissues decompose rapidly, making fossilization unlikely. Wolves have bones and teeth, which are hard and more resistant to decay. This gives them a much better chance of becoming fossilized.* **Size isn't the primary factor:** While larger organisms *can* sometimes leave more impressive fossils, size isn't the determining factor in whether something fossilizes. Small organisms with hard shells, like insects or shellfish, fossilize readily.* **Fur and other soft tissues:** Fur, like other soft tissues, rarely fossilizes. While impressions of fur have been found in exceptional circumstances, the fur itself doesn't typically survive.

Question

VI) Why would a wolf make a better fossil than a worm? A) large organisms fossilize better than small ones B) soft tissues make good fossils C) hard parts like bones and teeth are less likely to be broken down quickly D) fur fossilizes well

Solution

Answer