Fossils and Fossil Record

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What is a fossil?

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A fossil is the preserved remains or traces of a once-living organism, often found in sedimentary rock.

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NGSS.MS-LS4-1

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What is the fossil record?

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The fossil record is the collection of all known fossils and their placement in the geological time scale, providing evidence of the history of life on Earth.

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NGSS.MS-LS4-1

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What are index fossils?

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Index fossils are fossils of organisms that lived during a specific time period and are used to date and correlate the age of rock layers.

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Why are index fossils important?

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Index fossils help scientists determine the relative age of rock layers and the organisms that lived during that time.

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NGSS.MS-ESS1-4

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What does relative age mean?

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Relative age refers to the age of a rock or fossil in comparison to other rocks or fossils, rather than an exact age.

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NGSS.MS-ESS1-4

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What is the geologic time scale?

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The geologic time scale is a system used by geologists and paleontologists to describe the timing and relationships of events in Earth's history.

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NGSS.MS-ESS1-4

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How do scientists use fossils to learn about Earth's history?

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Scientists study fossils to understand the types of organisms that existed, their environments, and how life has changed over time.

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NGSS.MS-LS4-1

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What type of rock is most likely to contain fossils?

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Sedimentary rock is most likely to contain fossils because it forms from the accumulation of sediment, which can trap and preserve organic material.

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NGSS.MS-LS4-1

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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 an organism, such as footprints, burrows, or feces.

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NGSS.MS-LS4-1

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What is the significance of finding fossils in different rock layers?

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Finding fossils in different rock layers helps scientists understand the chronological order of life and the changes in environments over time.

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NGSS.MS-ESS1-4

NGSS.MS-LS4-1