Explain the importance of fossils in deciding evolutionary relationships.

Explanation

**Step-by-Step Text Solution:**

1. **Definition of Fossils**: Fossils are the preserved remains or traces of living organisms from the remote past. They can include various parts of dead organisms, such as teeth, bones, and skeletons.

2. **Determining Time Periods**: Fossils help scientists determine the time period during which the organism lived. By studying the structure and characteristics of fossils, researchers can ascertain the age of the fossil and place it within a specific geological time frame.

3. **Understanding Evolutionary Development**: Fossils provide insight into the evolutionary development of organisms. They help trace the lineage and evolutionary pathways of different species, allowing scientists to understand how certain traits and characteristics have evolved over time.

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