Fossils and Geologic Time

Front

What is a fossil?

Back

A fossil is the preserved remains or traces of ancient organisms, often found in sedimentary rock.

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS4-1

Front

What is geologic time?

Back

Geologic time is the timeline of Earth's history, divided into eons, eras, periods, and epochs.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS1-4

Front

What is the oldest layer of rock called?

Back

The oldest layer of rock is called the 'bedrock' or 'basement rock'.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS1-4

Front

How do paleontologists determine the age of fossils?

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Paleontologists use methods like radiometric dating and stratigraphy to determine the age of fossils.

Front

What conditions are necessary for fossilization?

Back

Fossilization typically requires rapid burial, low oxygen levels, and hard parts like bones or shells.

Front

What is a trace fossil?

Back

A trace fossil is a type of fossil that provides evidence of the activity of ancient organisms, such as footprints or burrows.

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS4-1

Front

What era did dinosaurs dominate?

Back

Dinosaurs dominated during the Mesozoic Era.

Front

What is the significance of the Precambrian Era?

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The Precambrian Era is significant because it covers the formation of Earth and the earliest development of life.

Tags

NGSS.HS-ESS1-6

Front

What is a coprolite?

Back

A coprolite is fossilized dung, providing insights into the diet of ancient organisms.

Front

What is the difference between a body fossil and a trace fossil?

Back

A body fossil is the actual remains of an organism, while a trace fossil records the activity of an organism.