When will a fossil be used in finding the absolute age of rocks? (1 point)
O if it existed for a limited period of time and in a wide area
O if it existed for a limited period of time and in a small area
O if it existed for a long period of time and in a wide area
O if it existed for a long period of time and in a small area
O if it existed for a limited period of time and in a wide area
A fossil will be most useful in finding the absolute age of rocks if it existed for a long period of time and in a wide area.
To determine the absolute age of rocks using fossils, we need to consider two factors: the duration of existence and the geographical distribution of the fossil.
Firstly, fossils that existed for a limited period of time are more useful for dating rocks than those that existed for a longer period. This is because fossils of organisms that existed for a shorter period can be used as more precise indicators of a specific geological age or time interval. Therefore, we can eliminate the options stating "if it existed for a long period of time."
Secondly, the geographical distribution of a fossil also plays a role in determining the absolute age of rocks. Fossils found over a wide area are more valuable for dating rocks because they indicate a broader time range. This is because the widespread distribution suggests that the organism lived during a longer time period or during a time when the land was connected. Hence, we can eliminate the options stating "in a small area."
By using the process of elimination, we can conclude that the correct answer is: if a fossil existed for a limited period of time and in a wide area.