Types of Fossils and Their Formation

Front

What is a fossil?

Back

A fossil is the preserved remains or traces of ancient organisms, typically found in sedimentary rock.

Front

What are the main types of fossils?

Back

The main types of fossils include body fossils, trace fossils, cast fossils, and mold fossils.

Front

What is a body fossil?

Back

A body fossil is the actual remains of an organism, such as bones, teeth, or shells.

Front

What is a trace fossil?

Back

A trace fossil is evidence of an organism's activity, such as footprints, burrows, or feces.

Front

What is a cast fossil?

Back

A cast fossil forms when a mold of an organism is filled with minerals, creating a replica of the original organism.

Front

What is a mold fossil?

Back

A mold fossil is an impression left in sediment that shows the shape of an organism.

Front

How do fossils form?

Back

Fossils form through processes like sedimentation, mineralization, and compression over millions of years.

Front

What is the significance of fossils in understanding Earth's history?

Back

Fossils provide evidence of past life, environmental conditions, and evolutionary changes over time.

Front

What type of fossil is a dinosaur footprint?

Back

A dinosaur footprint is an example of a trace fossil.

Front

What type of fossil is a preserved leaf?

Back

A preserved leaf is an example of a body fossil.