How would scientists determine that punctuated equilibrium occurred by examining the fossil record?
Scientists cannot tell if punctuated equilibrium occurred by looking at the
fossil record
Scientists can tell that punctuated equilibrium occurred when they see a
gradual change in organisms in the fossil record
Scientists would have to have the fossils of all organisms in a certain
species to be able to tell if punctuated equilibrium occurred.
Scientists can tell that punctuated equilibrium occurred if they examine
the fossil record and see that one organism rapidly evolved different
characteristics

The answer is: Scientists can tell that punctuated equilibrium occurred if they examine the fossil record and see that one organism rapidly evolved different characteristics.

Explanation:

The theory regarding "punctuated equilibrium" followed after Darwin's Theory of Evolution. According to Darwin, species evolved over time. However, evidence supporting it is lacking when it comes to fossil record. He thought that this was because the fossils were incomplete.

Darwin's idea was contradicted by evolutionary scientists, named Stephen Gould and Niles Eldrege. According to them, species change after millions of years (this phase is called "punctuated") and their change is sudden (and not gradual). This sudden change is very rapid, thus causing a fewer number of fossils being left behind. Most species who undergo speciation, occur in a different geographic location, thus leaving only a few number of fossils.

So, this explains the answer.