Question

scientists study different rock layers to understand the evolution of organisms. the table shows some of the organisms found in different layers of rock. the oldest rock layer is at the bottom of the table. which two statements provide evidence that supports the idea that complex life forms evolved from simple life forms? a. older rock layers contain more simple life forms. b. no evidence of life is present in the oldest rock layers. c. complex organisms are found only in the middle rock layers. d. the recent rock layers contain more complex organisms than the older rock layers. e. the fossils in the older rock layers are more complex than the ones found in the younger rock layers.

Explanation:

If complex life forms evolved from simple life forms, we would expect older rock layers (deposited earlier in Earth's history) to have more simple life - forms and more recent rock layers to have more complex organisms. Option A shows that older rock layers have more simple life - forms, and option D indicates that recent rock layers have more complex organisms than older ones, which supports the evolution of complex life from simple life. Option B only tells about the absence of life in the oldest layers and not about the evolution of life forms. Option C is incorrect as complex organisms are not only in middle rock layers. Option E is contrary to the expected evolutionary pattern.

Answer:

A. Older rock layers contain more simple life forms.
D. The recent rock layers contain more complex organisms than the older rock layers.