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What is the fossil record?

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The fossil record is the collection of all known fossils and their placement in the geological time scale, providing evidence for the history of life on Earth.

Front

What does it mean when an organism is described as extinct?

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An organism that is extinct is one that no longer exists on Earth.

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What is a cast fossil?

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A cast fossil is formed when a mold of an organism is filled with sediment or minerals, creating a replica of the original organism.

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What is a mold fossil?

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A mold fossil is created when an organism leaves an impression in sediment, which hardens into rock, preserving the shape of the organism.

Front

What is the significance of layers in the fossil record?

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Layers in the fossil record indicate different time periods and can show the sequence of life forms that existed at various times.

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What type of fossil is formed from the remains of an organism that have been preserved in amber?

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Amber fossils are formed when organisms, such as insects, are trapped in tree resin that hardens over time.

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

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Body fossils are the actual remains of an organism, such as bones or shells, while trace fossils are evidence of an organism's activity, such as footprints or burrows.

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How can fossils help scientists understand past environments?

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Fossils can provide clues about the climate, geography, and ecosystems of the past, helping scientists reconstruct ancient environments.

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What is relative dating in the context of fossils?

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Relative dating is a method used to determine the age of fossils by comparing their placement in layers of rock to other fossils.

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What is absolute dating, and how is it used with fossils?

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Absolute dating is a technique used to determine the actual age of a fossil using methods like radiometric dating.