Fossils and genes are used to determine

how many mutations occurred in a species over time.

how species will change over time.

differences between organisms.

how species interact with each other.

Fossils and genes are used to determine differences between organisms and how species have changed over time. Fossils can provide information about the physical characteristics of extinct species, while genes can show the genetic changes that have occurred within a species over time. By studying both fossils and genes, scientists can better understand the evolution and relationships between different species.