Chapter 16, Problem 17A

Summary Introduction

Introduction : The remains or traces of ancient life which have been preserved over time by natural processes are known as fossils. Fossils are organized in the fossil record by estimating their ages and physical similarities.

Answer to Problem 17A

Correct answer :

The correct answer is option (c), Proconsul, Paranthropus, A. afarensis, A. Africanus.

Explanation of Solution

Explanation/justification for the correct answer :

Option (c) According to evidences by the fossil record, the correct sequence of fossils is Proconsul, Paranthropus, A. afarensis, A. Africanus .

Proconsul is an extinct genus of primates. It existed from 28.4 to 11.608 mya at the time of Miocene epoch. Its fossils are present in Kenya and Uganda.

Paranthropus is a genus which consists of A. bosei and A. robustus. This genus is believed to exist from 2 to 1.2 mya.

A. afarensis are believed to live between 4 and 2.9 mya. One of its member Lucy’s fossils was discovered in 1974.

A. Africanus is a genus which is believed to live between 3.3 and 2.3 mya.

Explanation for incorrect answer :

Option (a) The correct sequence of fossils as evidenced by the fossil record is Proconsul, Paranthropus, A. afarensis, A. Africanus. Hence, this option is incorrect.

Option (b) The correct sequence of fossils as evidenced by the fossil record is Proconsul, Paranthropus, A. afarensis, A. Africanus. Hence, this option is incorrect.

Option (d) The correct sequence of fossils as evidenced by the fossil record is Proconsul, Paranthropus, A. afarensis, A. Africanus. Hence, this option is incorrect.

Conclusion

The correct sequence of fossils as evidenced by the fossil record is option (c), Proconsul, Paranthropus, A. afarensis, A. Africanus.