How does the fossil record corroborate phylogenetic hypotheses?

events that occur early in the fossil record are represented by branching events nearer to the root of a phylogenetic tree.
events that occur early in the fossil record are represented by branching events nearer to the tips of a phylogenetic tree.
fossil record events are too old to be represented on phylogenetic trees, which reconstruct the more recent past.
events in the fossil record occur randomly throughout a phylogenetic tree, so the two are not related to one another.
the timing of evolutionary events in the fossil record is not consistent with the branching order of a phylogenetic tree.

The correct answer is: Events that occur early in the fossil record are represented by branching events nearer to the root of a phylogenetic tree.  

Fossil records explain the history and evolution of life based on fossils. Fossils are remains of organisms preserved in sedimentary rock. In fossil records they are analyzed and arranged chronologically and in taxonomic order, so that can represent the evolution.

Phylogenies describes the relationships between organisms (species): from which organisms it is evolved, to which species it is most closely related etc. and it is represented as a diagram or phylogenetic tree. It is used to organize living organisms into specific categories. Characteristics of fossils are used to generate a phylogenetic tree, more precisely their roots that represent common ancestors.

desert perennials often survive by remaining dormant during dry periods of the year, then springing to life when water becomes available. most annual desert plants germinate only after heavy seasonal rain, then complete their reproductive cycle very quickly.