Fossils, Sedimentary Rock

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What are sediments?

Back

Small pieces of rock, minerals, and organic material that settle in layers.

Front

What process forms sedimentary rocks?

Back

Sediments are compacted and cemented together.

Front

What is a fossil?

Back

The preserved remains or traces of ancient living organisms.

Front

How can we determine the age of fossils?

Back

By studying the fossil record and the layers of sedimentary rock they are found in.

Front

What does it mean if a fossil is younger?

Back

It means the fossil was formed more recently compared to others.

Front

What does it mean if a fossil is older?

Back

It means the fossil was formed a long time ago, before other fossils.

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What is deposition?

Back

The process of dropping off sediments in a new location.

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What is erosion?

Back

The process of wearing away rocks and soil by wind, water, or ice.

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What is weathering?

Back

The breaking down of rocks into smaller pieces by natural forces.

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What can fossils tell us about the past?

Back

They provide evidence of what life was like and how environments have changed.