That is why plants and animals are becoming extinct at an alarming rate. Scientists often compare today s great extinction event with similar events that occurred millions of years ago. This helps people realize the importance of preserving Earth s biodiversity , or variety of living things. Since scientists also study prehistoric humans, they may help us understand ourselves. And understanding how ancient people and other creatures coped with changing environments may help us cope with our rapidly changing environment.
Paleontologists even learn why plants and animals become extinct.
But paleontologists are mostly just curious. When they find an answer to a question, they may then think up several more questions.