BIO3&4

Evolution

Cambrian explosion

a period of rapid diversification of multicellular life, characterised by the evolution of hardened body parts such as shells or bones

fossil record

the information derived from fossils

extinction

the dying out of a species on a global or regional level

fossil

the preserved body, impressions, or traces of a dead organism

fossilisaiton

the process of which an organism becomes a fossil

sediment

naturally occurring solid material such as earth and rock, that is broken down into very fine pieces and typically settles at the bottom of liquid

sedimentary rock

rock that has formed through the accumulation of sediment that hardens under pressure

permineralised fossil

A fossil created when minerals from groundwater are deposited in organic material, turning it into a mineral relic.

mould fossil 

fossil formed when a living thing decomposes underneath sediment, creating a cavity in the shape of the dead organism

cast fossil 

fossil formed when a mould fossil is filled with sediment

trace fossil 

fossil indicating the presence of organisms, rather than the organisms themselves such as nests, footprints and burrows.

physical protection from scavengers and decomposers

Protection that prevents organisms like fungi and bacteria from breaking down the remains of dead organisms.

areas of rapid sediment accumulation

Locations where sediment is deposited quickly, covering and preserving organic material.

constant cool temperatures

Stable cool temperatures that slow decomposition and foster fossilisation.

low oxygen availability

An environment lacking sufficient oxygen, which reduces decay rates and enhances preservation.

low light exposure

Minimal light conditions that can aid in preventing the decomposition of organic remains.