Fossils- Earths History

Front

What are fossils?

Back

Fossils are the preserved remains or traces of ancient organisms, typically found in sedimentary rock.

Front

What is the principle of superposition?

Back

In undisturbed rock layers, the oldest layers are at the bottom and the youngest layers are at the top.

Front

What is an index fossil?

Back

An index fossil is a fossil that is used to define and identify a particular time period in the geological time scale.

Front

What are the two main types of fossils?

Back

Body fossils (actual remains of organisms) and trace fossils (evidence of the activity of organisms, like footprints).

Front

What does the theory of continental drift propose?

Back

The theory states that continents were once part of a single supercontinent and have drifted apart over geological time.

Front

What is relative dating in geology?

Back

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

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What is absolute dating?

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

Front

What are sedimentary rocks?

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Sedimentary rocks are formed from the accumulation of sediment, which can include minerals, organic matter, and other materials.

Front

What is the significance of the fossil record?

Back

The fossil record provides evidence of the history of life on Earth, showing how organisms have changed over time.

Front

What are the characteristics of good index fossils?

Back

Good index fossils are widespread geographically and have a short geological lifespan.