What do preserved remains or traces of prehistoric plants and animals help scientists understand?

Preserved remains or traces of prehistoric plants and animals are crucial for scientists to reconstruct Earth's history. These fossils provide direct evidence of past life forms, which can reveal how organisms adapted to their environments over millions of years. By studying the distribution, morphology, and ecology of these ancient species, scientists can piece together the environmental conditions that existed during different geological periods. This also allows them to understand significant events in Earth's geological timeline, such as mass extinctions and the emergence of new ecosystems. The information gleaned from these fossils contributes to a broader understanding of the planet's historical development, including continental drift, volcanic activity, and changes in sea level.

While climate changes are indeed influenced by these ancient remains, the primary focus on knowing Earth's history encompasses a wider array of geological, ecological, and biological factors that shaped the planet. Understanding human evolution, on the other hand, specifically pertains to hominids and their adaptations, which, while linked to broader offerings from the fossil record, are more narrowly focused than the comprehensive view allowed by studying all prehistoric life forms. Thus, Earth's history is the correct answer as it captures the full scope of what the fossil record reveals.