Answer: D - It shows that the form and structure of groups of organisms have changed over time.
The fossil record provides evidence that evolution has occurred by showing that the form and structure of groups of organisms have changed over time. This is supported by the fact that fossils of organisms found in different geological strata show a gradual change in the form and structure of these organisms over time. This gradual change is evidence of evolution through the process of natural selection, where organisms with advantageous traits are more likely to survive and pass on their genes to the next generation.
The first statement, "It indicates that forms of life existed on Earth at least 3.5 billion years ago," is also true, but does not directly provide evidence of evolution. Instead, it provides evidence of the origin of life on Earth, which is a separate topic from evolution.
The second statement, "It indicates the exact cause of structural and behavioral adaptations of organisms," is not entirely accurate. While the fossil record can provide clues as to why certain adaptations may have evolved, it cannot provide exact causes. Other lines of evidence, such as genetic analysis, are needed to understand the specific mechanisms behind adaptations.
The third statement, "It shows how the embryos of many different vertebrate species are very similar," is also true but does not directly provide evidence of evolution. Instead, it provides evidence of common ancestry, which is a fundamental aspect of evolutionary theory. Similarities in embryonic development across different species suggest that they share a common evolutionary history.
