Question

speciation, fossilization and sedimentation quiz
name date per

1. multiple choice: what is sedimentation?

a) the process of rock melting
b) the settling of particles to form layers of sediment
c) the breaking down of rocks by wind
d) the movement of tectonic plates

1. open ended: explain how sedimentation contributes to fossil formation.

1. multiple choice: what is fossilization?

a) the process by which living organisms become extinct
b) the preservation of remains or traces of organisms in sedimentary rock
c) the erosion of rocks by water
d) the creation of new species over time

1. open ended: describe two ways fossils can form.

1. multiple choice: what does speciation refer to?

a) the death of individual organisms
b) the formation of new and distinct species over time
c) the breakdown of fossils
d) the movement of sediment layers

1. open ended: how can speciation be related to gaps in the fossil record?

Explanation:

1. Sedimentation is the process where particles settle to form sediment layers. Option A is rock - melting (igneous process), C is weathering (by wind), D is tectonic movement. So B is correct.
2. Sedimentation buries organisms quickly. This protects them from decomposition and scavengers. Over time, minerals replace organic material (permineralization) or leave impressions (mold/cast formation), contributing to fossil formation.
3. Fossilization is the preservation of organism remains/traces in sedimentary rock. A is extinction, C is erosion, D is speciation. So B is correct.
4. Two ways:

• Permineralization: Minerals fill pore spaces in organic material (e.g., bones).
• Mold and cast: Organism decays leaving a mold (impression), then sediment fills the mold to form a cast.

1. Speciation is the formation of new species. A is death of individuals, C is fossil breakdown, D is sediment movement. So B is correct.
2. Speciation can occur rapidly (e.g., due to sudden environmental change or genetic mutation). If the speciation event is quick, there may be few or no intermediate fossil forms. These rapid changes can lead to gaps in the fossil record as the transitional stages are not well - preserved.

Answer:

1. B. The settling of particles to form layers of sediment
2. Sedimentation buries organisms quickly, protecting them from decomposition and scavengers. Over time, minerals can replace organic material (permineralization) or leave impressions (mold/cast formation) to form fossils.
3. B. The preservation of remains or traces of organisms in sedimentary rock
4. Permineralization (minerals fill pore spaces in organic material) and mold/cast formation (organism decays leaving a mold, then sediment fills to form a cast).
5. B. The formation of new and distinct species over time
6. Speciation can occur rapidly. If the speciation event is quick, there may be few or no intermediate fossil forms, leading to gaps in the fossil record as the transitional stages are not well - preserved.