Question

which of the following best describes why the fossil record is biased toward preserving specific kinds of fossils? choose 1 answer: a fossils are more likely to be found from rare organisms that existed for only a short geologic time. b fossils are more likely to form from organisms with hard body parts, such as bones, shells, and teeth. c fossils form in all types of environments, regardless of conditions.

Explanation:

• Option A: Rare organisms with short geologic existence are less likely to be fossilized as they have less time/opportunity, so A is wrong.
• Option B: Organisms with hard parts (bones, shells, teeth) are more likely to fossilize because hard structures resist decay and are more prone to mineralization, explaining the bias.
• Option C: Fossil formation requires specific conditions (e.g., sedimentation, low oxygen), not all environments, so C is wrong.

Answer:

B. Fossils are more likely to form from organisms with hard body parts, such as bones, shells, and teeth.