Question

a scientist finds a fossil that she thinks might make a good index fossil. which characteristic does this fossil most likely have? it is the remains of an organism still found alive today. it is the remains of an organism that is found in abundance nearby. it is the only fossil for this type of organism that has ever been found. it is the remains of an organism that lived in a narrow geographic area.

Explanation:

Index fossils are remains of organisms that were abundant, widespread, and lived for a relatively short period of time. An organism found in abundance nearby is more likely to meet the criteria for an index - fossil compared to the other options. Remains of an organism still alive today are not fossils. A single - found fossil or one from a narrow geographic area is less useful as an index fossil.

Answer:

It is the remains of an organism that is found in abundance nearby.