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How have scientists learned about the history of life on Earth?
radioactive dating
fossil record
DNA studies
branching trees
Scientists have learned about the history of life on Earth through various methods, including:
1. Radiometric or radioactive dating: By analyzing the decay of specific isotopes in rocks and fossils, scientists can determine the age of these materials and reconstruct the timeline of life on Earth.
2. Fossil record: Fossils provide physical evidence of past life forms and their evolution over time. By studying the preserved remains of plants and animals, scientists can piece together the history of life on Earth.
3. DNA studies: By analyzing the genetic material of living organisms and comparing it to that of their ancestors, scientists can trace evolutionary relationships and infer the history of life on Earth.
4. Branching trees (phylogenetic trees): By constructing diagrams that show the evolutionary relationships between different species, scientists can visually represent the history of life and how different organisms are related to each other.