Front

How does a fossil form?

Back

A fossil forms when an organism dies and is covered with sediment that turns into rock.

Front

What is sedimentary rock?

Back

Sedimentary rock is a type of rock that forms from the accumulation and compaction of sediment.

Front

How does a sedimentary rock form?

Back

Sedimentary rock forms when sediment sinks and builds up in water, compacts under more sediment, and cements over time.

Front

What happens to rock layers over time?

Back

Rock layers become thicker as sediment continues to build up.

Front

True or False: If there are different sedimentary rock layers in a place, then the environment in that place has changed.

Back

True

Front

How do geologists make inferences about past environments?

Back

Geologists make inferences about past environments by observing rocks and fossils.

Front

What is sediment?

Back

Sediment is small particles of rock, minerals, or organic material that can accumulate and form sedimentary rock.

Front

What is the process of compaction?

Back

Compaction is the process where sediment is pressed together under the weight of overlying materials.

Front

What is cementation?

Back

Cementation is the process where dissolved minerals crystallize and bind sediment particles together.

Front

What is weathering?

Back

Weathering is the breaking down of rocks into smaller pieces by natural forces such as wind, water, and temperature changes.