Question: Which of the following statements best describes how paleontology contributes to the understanding of Earth's past? Need Assignment Help? A. Paleontology examines the celestial bodies and extraterrestrial phenomena, offering insights into the formation and development of the universe. B. Paleontology is the study of ancient plant and animal life, allowing scientists to reconstruct past ecosystems and understand the changes in life on Earth. C. Paleontology primarily investigates the historical development of human civilizations, providing valuable information about ancient cultures and societies.