Fossils and Their Types

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Fossil

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The remains or traces of ancient living things that help us learn about Earth's history.

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Mold

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A hollow shape left in rock that forms when an organism leaves an impression in the ground.

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Cast

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A solid copy of the shape of an organism that forms when minerals fill in a mold.

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Amber

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Fossilized tree resin that can trap and preserve small organisms, like insects.

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Trace Fossil

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Evidence of an organism's activity, such as footprints, burrows, or nests.

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Organism

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Any living thing, including plants and animals.

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Minerals

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Natural substances found in the earth that can fill molds to create casts.

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Preserve

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To keep something in its original state, often for a long time.

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Ancient

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Something that is very old, often referring to things that lived or existed a long time ago.

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Impression

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A mark or imprint left by an organism in the ground or in rock.