Rock and Fossil Flashcard

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What is an index fossil?

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An index fossil is a fossil that is used to date and correlate the age of rock layers. It is typically widespread, abundant, and existed for a relatively short period of geological time.

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What does folding refer to in geology?

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Folding is the process by which rock layers are bent or curved due to internal forces within the Earth, often resulting in the formation of mountains.

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Which group of animals is believed to have gone extinct due to global climate change?

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Dinosaurs are believed to have gone extinct due to global climate change, among other factors.

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What is an intrusion in geology?

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An intrusion is molten rock that has squeezed into existing rock formations and solidified, forming igneous rock.

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What is paleontology?

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Paleontology is the scientific study of past life, including the examination of fossils to understand the history of life on Earth.

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What is a mold fossil?

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A mold fossil is a type of fossil that forms when an organism leaves an impression in sediment, which later hardens into rock.

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What is a cast fossil?

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A cast fossil is created when a mold fossil is filled with minerals or sediment, forming a replica of the original organism.

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What is a trace fossil?

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

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What is a fault in geology?

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A fault is a fracture or zone of fractures in rock along which movement has occurred, often resulting in earthquakes.

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What does tilting refer to in geology?

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Tilting is the process where rock layers are tilted from their original horizontal position due to tectonic forces.