Why are fossils of the animal Archaeopteryx used as evidence that birds and dinosaurs may be very closely related (meaning that birds and dinosaurs might share a more recent common ancestor than they would with other types of animals, such as mammals)?

Question

Why are fossils of the animal Archaeopteryx used as evidence that birds and dinosaurs may be very closely related (meaning that birds and dinosaurs might share a more recent common ancestor than they would with other types of animals, such as mammals)?

Archaeopteryx were not able to survive as well as birds, but better than dinosaurs.

Archaeopteryx were older than dinosaurs but younger than birds.

Archaeopteryx fossils were found near both bird and dinosaur fossils in rock layers.

Archaeopteryx share characteristics of both birds and dinosaurs (like teeth and feathers), as seen in their fossils.

Answer 1

Therefore, the presence of Archaeopteryx fossils with traits of both birds and dinosaurs suggests a transitional link between the two groups, supporting the theory that birds and dinosaurs may be closely related and share a common ancestor. This provides evidence for the evolutionary link between modern birds and ancient dinosaurs.