6.03 Origin and Evolution of Life

Origin and Evolution of Life

The concept that life has evolved, with various beliefs surrounding its origins, primarily informed by scientific evidence.

Paleontologists

Scientists who study fossils and interpret the history of life through the fossil record.

Fossil Record

The collective remnants of life from the distant past, used to understand Earth's biological and geological history.

Mold Fossils

Depressions in sedimentary rock that represent imprints of organisms.

Cast Fossils

Three-dimensional fossils formed when minerals fill mold deposits in sedimentary rock.

Imprint Fossils

Depressions or imprints of thin objects preserved in sedimentary rock.

Amber Fossils

Fossils formed from hardened tree sap, resulting in raised or three-dimensional fossils.

Petrified Remains

Remains that have transformed into rock, resulting in raised or three-dimensional fossils.

Adaptations

Characteristics of an organism that enhance its survival in specific environments.

Mass Extinction Theory

The theory suggesting that mass extinction events, such as the one that eliminated dinosaurs, can drastically affect biodiversity.

Biological Evolution

The process explaining how living organisms change over time and share common ancestors.

Living Fossils

Organisms that are similar to ancient species and have remained relatively unchanged over time.

Phylogeny

The study of evolutionary relationships among biological organisms, often represented through phylogenetic trees or cladograms.

Fossil Evolution

The concept that fossil evidence reflects the changes in life forms over geologic time.

Fossilization

The process through which remains of organisms are preserved in sedimentary rock.