GEL 113 Homework 3 Answer sheet

Study Questions for Chapter 2 - The Prehistoric Records

Part I: True or False:

1.F, 2.T, 3.F, 4.F, 5.T, 6.T

Part II: Multiple Choice:

1.B, 2.B, 3.D, 4.A, 5.A, 6.C, 7.D

Part III. Thought Questions:

1. Body fossils are the actual remains of organisms. Examples include bones, teeth, shells, wood and impressions of feathers, skin and leaves (see #1., p.17).

Trace fossils are indications of prehistoric life or signs of biological activity, including footprints, burrows, nests, gastroliths, and coprolites.

2.a. Properties of animals and plants which favor preservation are the presence of hard parts (bone, cellulose, etc.) and presence in a favorable terrain (see b.).

b. Properties of the physical environment which favor preservation are at least periodic high sedimentation rates which would allow for rapid burial and groundwater conditions which allow for mineralization (petrification).

3. The best way to decide where to look for dinosaur fossils is to get a geologic map of the state you are in. That way you can see if there is rock of the proper age (Mesozoic) and the proper type (terrestrial mudstones and sandstones) which is well enough exposed (cliffs, riverbanks, etc.) to make your chances of success reasonable.