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What is a fossil?

Back

A fossil is the preserved remains or traces of a once-living organism, often found in sedimentary rock.

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NGSS.MS-LS4-1

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What is the role of a paleontologist?

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A paleontologist is a scientist who studies fossils to understand the history of life on Earth.

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NGSS.MS-LS4-1

NGSS.MS-LS4-2

Front

Which layer of sedimentary rock is the oldest?

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The bottom layer is the oldest layer of sedimentary rock.

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NGSS.MS-ESS1-4

Front

What is the process of fossilization?

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Fossilization is the process where a plant or animal is buried by sediment, which eventually hardens into rock.

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What must happen first for a fossil to form?

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A plant or animal must die and decompose before it can become a fossil.

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What is sediment?

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Sediment is small particles of rock, minerals, and organic material that accumulate over time.

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NGSS.MS-ESS2-3

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What is a mold in fossil formation?

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A mold is a hollow impression left in sediment when an organism decays.

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NGSS.MS-LS4-1

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What is a cast in fossil formation?

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

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How do fossils help scientists?

Back

Fossils help scientists understand the history of life, evolution, and past environments.

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NGSS.MS-LS4-1

NGSS.MS-LS4-2

Front

What is the Law of Superposition?

Back

The Law of Superposition states that in undisturbed layers of rock, the oldest layers are at the bottom and the youngest are at the top.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS1-4