Geologic Time Scale and Fossils

Front

What are preserved remains of plants and animals from the remote past called?

Back

Fossils

Front

Which layer is typically the oldest in a geological formation?

Back

Dolomite

Front

What type of fossil is a bug stuck in amber an example of?

Back

Preserved remains

Front

What is an index fossil?

Back

A fossil used to establish the age of a rock layer because it is distinct, abundant, and widespread, and the species existed for only a short span of geologic time.

Front

What is a trace fossil?

Back

A trail, track, or burrow left behind by an animal that later fossilized.

Front

What is the primary purpose of the geologic time scale?

Back

To organize Earth's history into different time periods based on significant geological and biological events.

Front

What are sedimentary rocks?

Back

Rocks formed by the accumulation and compaction of mineral and organic particles.

Front

What is radioactive dating?

Back

A method used to determine the age of rocks and fossils by measuring the decay of radioactive isotopes.

Front

What is a fossil record?

Back

The history of life on Earth as documented by fossils, showing the changes in organisms over time.

Front

What is a mold fossil?

Back

A fossil that forms when an organism leaves an impression in sediment that hardens.