6.3 Fossils and Extinction

Front

What happens when a group of animals become extinct?

Back

All of its members have died.

Front

Which of the following is most likely to become preserved as a fossil?

Back

Clam shell.

Front

How do fossils form?

Back

Fossils can form when a dead organism becomes buried in sediment, an insect becomes trapped in amber, or an entire organism becomes frozen in ice.

Front

In which kind of rock do we usually find a fossil?

Back

Sedimentary rock.

Front

Why don't we know what many ancient plants looked like?

Back

They had too many soft parts.

Front

What is a fossil?

Back

A fossil is the preserved remains or traces of a once-living organism.

Front

What are the main types of fossils?

Back

The main types of fossils include body fossils, trace fossils, and mold and cast fossils.

Front

What is the significance of fossils in understanding Earth's history?

Back

Fossils provide evidence of past life and help scientists understand the evolution of species and changes in the environment.

Front

What conditions are necessary for fossilization to occur?

Back

Rapid burial, low oxygen levels, and the presence of hard parts increase the chances of fossilization.

Front

What is extinction?

Back

Extinction is the end of an organism or a group of organisms, resulting in no living members.