5. Which statement correctly describes a trace fossil? (1 point)
A fossil that shows the shape of an animal
A fossil of a small bone from an animal skeleton
A fossil that provides evidence of the behaviors of animals
A fossil in which parts of an organism have been replaced with minerals
Shows evidence of behavior
To determine which statement correctly describes a trace fossil, we need to understand what a trace fossil is and then compare it to the provided options.
A trace fossil is not the actual remains of an organism, but rather indirect evidence of an organism's activities or behaviors. These can include footprints, burrows, tracks, nests, or even feces left behind by ancient organisms. Trace fossils provide valuable insight into the behaviors and interactions of organisms in the past.
Now, let's examine each statement to see which one matches the description of a trace fossil:
1. A fossil that shows the shape of an animal: This statement describes an impression fossil, where the physical shape or outline of an organism is preserved in the fossil record. This is not characteristic of a trace fossil.
2. A fossil of a small bone from an animal skeleton: This statement describes a body fossil, which is the actual preserved remains of an organism, specifically a bone. This is not characteristic of a trace fossil.
3. A fossil that provides evidence of the behaviors of animals: This statement correctly describes a trace fossil. As mentioned earlier, trace fossils offer insights into the behaviors and activities of ancient organisms.
4. A fossil in which parts of an organism have been replaced with minerals: This statement describes a replacement fossil, where the original organic material of an organism is replaced by minerals, resulting in a fossil that retains the shape and structure of the organism. This is not characteristic of a trace fossil.
Based on this analysis, option 3, "A fossil that provides evidence of the behaviors of animals," is the correct statement that describes a trace fossil.