Fossils and Geologic Time

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What is a fossil?

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

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NGSS.MS-LS4-1

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What do paleontologists study?

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Paleontologists study fossils to understand the history of life on Earth.

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NGSS.MS-LS4-1

NGSS.MS-LS4-2

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What is the geologic time scale?

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The geologic time scale is a system of chronological dating that relates geological strata to time.

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NGSS.MS-ESS1-4

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What is relative age dating?

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Relative age dating is determining the age of a fossil or rock layer in relation to other fossils or rock layers.

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NGSS.MS-ESS1-4

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What is absolute age dating?

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Absolute age dating is determining the exact age of a fossil or rock layer using methods like radioactive dating.

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NGSS.HS-PS1-8

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What is a mold fossil?

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A mold fossil is a cavity in rock that has the shape of an organism.

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What is a cast fossil?

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A cast fossil is a replica of an organism formed when minerals fill a mold.

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What are trace fossils?

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Trace fossils are evidence of an organism's activity, such as footprints or burrows.

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NGSS.MS-LS4-1

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What is the significance of the fossil record?

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The fossil record provides evidence of the history of life and evolution on Earth.

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NGSS.MS-LS4-1

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What type of rock are fossils typically found in?

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Fossils are typically found in sedimentary rock.

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NGSS.MS-LS4-1