4th Grade Fossil Flashcard

Front

What is a fossil?

Back

A fossil is the preserved remains or traces of a once-living organism, often found in sedimentary rock.

Front

What is a paleontologist?

Back

A paleontologist is a scientist who studies fossils to understand the history of life on Earth.

Front

What is a cast fossil?

Back

A cast fossil is a type of fossil that forms when a mold of an organism is filled with sediment, creating a solid 3D copy.

Front

What is a mold fossil?

Back

A mold fossil is an impression left in sediment that shows the shape of an organism.

Front

Where are the oldest fossils typically found?

Back

The oldest fossils are usually found in the bottom layer of sedimentary rock.

Front

What modern animal is most similar to the megalodon?

Back

The megalodon is most closely related to modern sharks.

Front

What is the difference between a mold and a cast fossil?

Back

A mold fossil is an impression of an organism, while a cast fossil is a solid copy formed from a mold.

Front

What type of rock are fossils usually found in?

Back

Fossils are typically found in sedimentary rock.

Front

What is the significance of studying fossils?

Back

Studying fossils helps scientists understand the evolution of life and the history of the Earth.

Front

What is a trace fossil?

Back

A trace fossil is a type of fossil that records the activity of an organism, such as footprints or burrows.