Scientists have used the fossil record to estimate the average length of time that a species inhabits the Earth. This estimate is useful for assessing the impact of humans on the Earth's biological diversity because it can
A) help determine how long the human species might survive.
B) determine which species might become extinct soon, even if humans aren't involved.
C) estimate how many species extinctions are caused by human activity.
D) assure us that human activity is not the cause of most species extinctions.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

By estimating the average length of time a species inhabits the Earth, scientists can compare it to the current extinction rates and determine how many of these extinctions are likely caused by human activity. This information can help us understand the impact of humans on biological diversity and make informed conservation decisions. Option A and D are not supported by the information given, and option B is partially correct but does not fully capture the usefulness of the estimate.

Scientists Have Used the Fossil Record to Estimate the Average