Fossils

Front

What is amber in the context of fossils?

Back

Amber is tree sap that has hardened and been replaced by minerals, often preserving ancient organisms within it.

Front

Which parts of an organism are most likely to become fossils?

Back

Hard parts like bones and shells are most likely to become fossils due to their durability.

Front

What is the role of sediment in fossil formation?

Back

Sediment protects and preserves the remains of organisms from decay, allowing for fossilization.

Front

Define a fossil.

Back

A fossil is the hardened remains or traces of a living thing that died long ago.

Front

Why are there more animal fossils than plant fossils?

Back

There are more animal fossils because plants generally have softer bodies, which are less likely to be preserved.

Front

What is the process of fossilization?

Back

Fossilization is the process by which organic material is replaced by minerals over time, preserving the structure of the organism.

Front

What types of organisms are commonly found as fossils?

Back

Common fossils include those of dinosaurs, fish, insects, and plants, particularly those with hard parts.

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS4-1

NGSS.MS-LS4-2

Front

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

Back

Fossils provide evidence of past life forms, their environments, and the changes in Earth's climate and geography over time.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-3

NGSS.MS-LS4-1

Front

What is a trace fossil?

Back

A trace fossil is a type of fossil that records the activity of an organism, such as footprints, burrows, or feces.

Front

How do paleontologists study fossils?

Back

Paleontologists study fossils by excavating them, analyzing their structure, and using various dating methods to understand their age.