Answer :
The statement that best describes how the study of fossils supports the theory of evolution is:
"Fossils provide evidence of the past that shows relationships among organisms and how they have changed over time."
Fossils are the preserved remains or traces of ancient organisms, and they provide a unique window into the history of life on Earth. By studying fossils, scientists can reconstruct the evolutionary history of organisms, identify transitional forms between different species, and trace the descent of modern organisms from their ancestors.
Fossils provide evidence of the diversity of life that existed in the past, as well as the changes that have occurred in species over time. They can show the anatomical structures of ancient organisms, including both external traits and, in some cases, soft body structures. By comparing the anatomical features of fossils to those of living organisms, scientists can infer evolutionary relationships and understand how species have adapted and changed in response to environmental pressures.
Fossils also allow scientists to study the distribution of organisms throughout geologic time and across different geographic regions, providing valuable insights into biogeography and the processes that have shaped the distribution of life on Earth.
