Fossils

Front

What replaces the wood of a once-living thing to form petrified wood?

Back

Minerals replace the wood of a once-living thing to form petrified wood.

Front

What is the definition of a fossil?

Back

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

Front

What type of fossil is formed when an organism leaves an impression in sediment?

Back

A mold fossil is formed when an organism leaves an impression in sediment.

Front

What type of fossil is created when minerals fill in a mold and create a replica of the organism?

Back

A cast fossil is created when minerals fill in a mold and create a replica of the organism.

Front

What is a petrified fossil?

Back

A petrified fossil is formed when minerals replace all or part of an organism.

Front

What is a trace fossil?

Back

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

Front

What is amber?

Back

Amber is fossilized tree resin that can preserve small organisms.

Front

What is the difference between a body fossil and a trace fossil?

Back

A body fossil is the actual remains of an organism, while a trace fossil is evidence of the organism's activity.

Front

What conditions are necessary for fossilization to occur?

Back

Fossilization typically requires rapid burial and the presence of hard parts, like bones or shells.

Front

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

Back

Fossils provide evidence of past life and help scientists understand the evolution of species and changes in the environment.