Why does the author use the word “luckily” in mentioning that the Ambulocetus natans fossil included hind legs?
Result:
AI explanationShows the answer. Tap to open.
Option 2: "The legs provided important information about the evolution of cetaceans."
Explanation: This option is correct because the text highlights that the fossil included a good portion of the hind legs, which were functional both on land and at sea. This information is crucial for understanding the evolutionary link between land and sea life in cetaceans, thus supporting the idea that the discovery was 'lucky'.
Option 1: "Fossil legs of early whales are a rare find."
Explanation: While it is true that fossilized remains can be rare, the text does not specifically state that the legs of early whales are rare finds. The focus is on the significance of the hind legs found in this particular fossil, rather than their general rarity.
Option 3: "The discovery allowed scientists to reconstruct a complete skeleton of the whale."
Explanation: The text does not mention that the discovery of the hind legs allowed for the reconstruction of a complete skeleton. It focuses on the functional aspects of the legs rather than their role in reconstructing the entire skeleton.
Option 4: "Until that time, only the front legs of early whales had been discovered."
Explanation: The text does not provide any information about previous discoveries being limited to only front legs. It discusses the significance of the hind legs found in this fossil without comparing it to prior findings.
The rest of this explanation is for members. Sign in free to read why the other options are wrong, key words and tips.
Sign in to read the full explanation