Full Fossils Review

Fossil

The preserved remains or traces of an ancient organism.

Mold

An impression fossil of an organism in sediment.

Cast

A fossil that is a 3D copy of an organism's shape. Made from mold fossils.

Petrified Fossil

A fossil in which minerals replace all or part of an organism.

Carbon Film

A fossil made of a very thin coating of carbon on rock.

Trace Fossil

A type of fossil that only shows evidence of ancient organisms.

Paleontologist

A scientist who studies fossils.

Evolution

Ancient organisms changing over time to form modern organisms

Extinct

A species that is not alive any more.

How are Fossils Made? (3 steps)

1. Organism Dies.

2. Organism is buried in sediment.

3. Sediment turns to rock and remains are preserved.

Give 3 facts about molds and casts.

1. Most common fossils

2. Casts are made from molds.

3. Preserve fine details.

What can petrified fossils be made from?

Bone & Wood

What does "petrified" mean?

"turned to stone"

What do carbon films preserve better than other types of fossils?

The delicate parts of organisms. (ex: flowers)

What are some examples of trace fossils?

tracks, trails, burrows, nests.

What are preserved remains?

Whole remains preserved in ice, amber (tree sap), or tar.

What types of things can paleontologists learn about from studying the fossil record?

What animals were found in an area.

Evolution.

Ancient environments and climates.