Question

a geologist finds a large rock containing a fern fossil. this kind of fern grew on land in hot, moist climates. what does this tell the geologist about the area at the time the rock was formed?
the area was snowy and cold.
the area was muddy and wet.
the area was covered by an ocean.
the area was hot and tropical.

Explanation:

Ferns grow in hot, moist climates. Muddy and wet conditions are part of a moist environment. Snowy and cold is the opposite of hot. Covered by an ocean would not be land where ferns grow. Hot and tropical is too broad compared to the more specific muddy and wet which directly relates to the moist part of the fern's growth requirements.

Answer:

The area was muddy and wet.