Fossils

Front

What is a fossil?

Back

The hardened remains of a living thing that died long ago.

Front

What does it mean when something is extinct?

Back

It no longer exists.

Front

What is the first step in the process of how a fossil is formed?

Back

An animal dies in a wet environment (such as a riverbank).

Front

What happens to the animal's body after it dies?

Back

The animal’s body or plant’s leaves are covered in mud. Soft tissues or organs decompose or are eaten by other living things.

Front

What is left behind after the soft parts decay?

Back

The hard parts (bones, teeth, claws, beaks, etc.) are left behind.

Front

What happens to the sediment over time?

Back

As time passes, sediment hardens into rock, layering on top of the animal or plant part.

Front

What is an example of a fossil?

Back

An insect stuck in amber.

Front

Which of the following is NOT a fossil?

Back

A seashell found on the beach.

Front

What is petrification?

Back

The process where organic material becomes a fossil through mineralization.

Front

What is amber?

Back

A fossilized tree resin that can trap insects.