Evolution 5.2
Life consisted of microscopic, single-celled organisms Earth formed 4.6 BYA Life came about 4 BYA Life consisted of microscopic, single-celled organisms Evolution-change over time-gradually produced the vast complexity and diversity of life today Evolution
We have more evidence now! FOSSILS! Learning from the past Origin of Species- Darwin’s book that included evidence of evolution and arguments for natural selection. We have more evidence now! FOSSILS!
The Fossil Record Fossil- the preserved remains or traces of organisms that lived long ago Evidence of evolution! Fossil record- the record of life that unfolded over four billion years
How can fossils be preserved? Petrified remains Original remains Molds and casts Trace fossils Carbonaceous films
Dating Relative dating- determines which of two fossils is older or younger than the other
Dating Absolute dating- uses the amount of carbon-14 or other radioactive element that remains in a fossil to determine about how long ago a fossilized organism lived
Geologic Time Scale divides Earth’s history into divisions (such as eons, eras, and periods) that are based on major changes in geology, climate, and the evolution of life.