The Fossil Record Flashcard

Front

What is a trace fossil?

Back

A trace fossil is a type of fossil that provides evidence of the activities or behaviors of ancient organisms, such as footprints, burrows, or feces.

Front

What type of rock are fossils usually found in?

Back

Fossils are usually found in sedimentary rock.

Front

What increases the likelihood of an animal's body being fossilized?

Back

An animal's body is more likely to be fossilized if it is covered with sediment soon after death.

Front

What is a living fossil?

Back

A living fossil is an organism that has remained relatively unchanged throughout the fossil record and still exists today.

Front

What can be inferred if ocean organism fossils are found in mountain layers?

Back

It can be inferred that the land was once under the ocean.

Front

What is the significance of sedimentary rock in paleontology?

Back

Sedimentary rock is significant in paleontology because it is where most fossils are found, preserving the remains of organisms.

Front

How do fossils help scientists understand past environments?

Back

Fossils provide clues about the types of organisms that lived in an area and the conditions of the environment at that time.

Front

What is the difference between body fossils and trace fossils?

Back

Body fossils are the actual remains of an organism, such as bones or shells, while trace fossils record the activities of organisms, like footprints.

Front

Why are some organisms considered 'extinct'?

Back

Organisms are considered extinct when there are no living individuals left of that species.

Front

What role does sediment play in fossilization?

Back

Sediment helps protect remains from decay and physical disturbance, increasing the chances of fossilization.