Fossils

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What is a fossil?

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A fossil is the remains or traces of a plant or animal that lived a long time ago, often found in rocks.

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NGSS.MS-ESS2-3

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How long does it usually take for a plant or animal to become a fossil?

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It usually takes about 1 million years for a plant or animal to become a fossil.

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What do scientists study fossils for?

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Scientists study fossils to learn about organisms from long ago.

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What are scientists who study fossils called?

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Scientists who study fossils are called paleontologists.

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NGSS.MS-LS4-1

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What type of fossils are more common, plant or animal?

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Animal fossils are more common than plant fossils.

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What can fossils tell us about the past?

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Fossils can tell us about the environment and climate of the Earth in the past.

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NGSS.MS-LS4-1

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Where are fossils usually found?

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Fossils are usually found in sedimentary rocks.

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NGSS.MS-LS4-1

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What is an example of a fossil?

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An example of a fossil is a dinosaur bone or a leaf imprint.

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NGSS.MS-LS4-1

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What does the word 'paleontology' mean?

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Paleontology is the study of fossils and ancient life.

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NGSS.MS-LS4-1

NGSS.MS-LS4-2

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How do fossils form?

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Fossils form when plants or animals are buried by sediment and over time, minerals replace their remains.