Front

What is a fossil?

Back

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

Front

How are fossils formed?

Back

Fossils are formed when an organism dies and is quickly buried by sediment, which protects it from decay.

Front

Why is quick burial important for fossil formation?

Back

Quick burial prevents the organism from decaying and allows minerals to replace the organic material, forming a fossil.

Front

What materials can become fossils?

Back

Bones, shells, leaves, and even footprints can become fossils.

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS4-1

Front

What is sediment?

Back

Sediment is small particles of rock, soil, and organic material that can accumulate and cover dead organisms.

Front

What role do minerals play in fossil formation?

Back

Minerals fill in the spaces left by decaying organic material, creating a fossil.

Front

What is an imprint fossil?

Back

An imprint fossil is formed when an organism leaves a mark or impression in sediment that hardens over time.

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS4-1

Front

What is the difference between a mold and a cast fossil?

Back

A mold fossil is an impression of an organism, while a cast fossil is a replica formed when minerals fill the mold.

Front

What is the significance of studying fossils?

Back

Studying fossils helps scientists understand the history of life on Earth and how organisms have changed over time.

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS4-1

NGSS.MS-LS4-2

Front

What can fossils tell us about the environment?

Back

Fossils can provide clues about the climate, geography, and ecosystems of the past.