Question

Paleontologists hypothesize that modern birds evolved from the family of dinosaurs that included {Tyrannosaurus rex}. This hypothesis would be strongly supported if evidence that dinosaurs from this family had a body covering resembling feathers could be found, but so far no such evidence has been found. Which of the following, if true, would most help the paleontologists explain why no evidence of feathered dinosaurs has yet been found?

• A. Fossilized dinosaurs have shown many birdlike characteristics, such as bone structure and winglike arms.
• B. If birds are in fact the descendants of dinosaurs, then it can be argued that the dinosaurs never really died out.
• C. Flying dinosaurs such as the {Pteranodon}, which is not thought to have been related to modern birds, do not appear to have had feathers.
• D. Soft tissues such as skin and feathers do not fossilize like bones, and therefore are far less likely to have left permanent evidence in the fossil record.
• E. The thousands of dinosaur fossils excavated by paleontologists represent only a tiny fraction of the billions of dinosaurs that once lived.

Hint:

When evaluating scientific claims, consider the nature of the evidence and what factors may influence its availability or preservation.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Understand the hypothesis.
The hypothesis is that modern birds evolved from dinosaurs, and the lack of evidence for feathered dinosaurs is a key issue. We need to find an explanation for why feathered dinosaurs have not been found.
Step 2: Review the options.
- (A) While fossilized dinosaurs showing birdlike characteristics is relevant, it doesn't directly explain the absence of feathered dinosaurs.
- (B) This is an interesting claim about the continuity of dinosaurs, but it does not address the lack of evidence for feathers.
- (C) The {Pteranodon} is not related to modern birds and thus doesn't provide any explanation for the absence of feathers in dinosaurs thought to be related to birds.
- (D) This option directly explains that feathers, being soft tissues, are less likely to fossilize, which would help explain the lack of evidence for feathered dinosaurs.
- (E) While this option discusses the number of fossils, it does not address the specific issue of missing evidence for feathers.
Conclusion:
Option (D) is the best because it explains why feathered dinosaurs are not likely to be found in the fossil record.