Fossil Types and Formation

Which type of fossil represents evidence of animal activity?

What is the primary requirement for remains to be classified as fossils?

In which type of rock are most fossils found?

What does the term 'coprolite' refer to?

What commonly accompanies plant or animal fossils in sedimentary rock?

Which feature primarily distinguishes amber fossils from other types?

Where can significant fossil findings typically be located?

Which mineralized fossil typically represents the external shape and structural features of the original plant or animal?

What is the significance of sedimentary rocks that are 67 million years old?

What process contributes to the formation of a body fossil?

Fossil Types

Fossils are the preserved remains or traces of ancient life, typically over 10,000 years old.
Trace fossils: Evidence of animal activity/behavior preserved, like footprints.
Body fossils: Remains of plants or animals preserved, often replaced by minerals.
- Dinosaur fossils are a prime example.

Types of Rocks for Fossils

Sedimentary rocks: Most common for fossil discovery. Formed from compressed sediment (sand, silt, clay).
- Examples include limestone and sandstone.
Process: Plants/animals get buried by sediment; minerals replace the original material; the organism dissolves leaving a mold.
The fossil itself is not the original organism but a mineral cast/mold.
Fossil age helps pinpoint organism life time. (Ex: Tyrannosaurus Rex – 67 million years old)

Amber Fossils

Amber fossils: Rare fossils found in amber, a preserved tree resin with trapped organisms.
Most amber fossils contain insects, preserved in the hardening resin.

Fossil Locations

High desert regions: Often good for fossil discovery due to less organic matter.
Western United States, Argentina, and China: Locations with fossil discoveries.

Fossil Poop (Coprolites)

Coprolites: Fossil poop, valuable in identifying ancient organisms.
Used to determine diet and species.
Found in diverse animals, like dinosaurs, fish, crocodiles, and insects.
- Example: Coprolites from 50 million-year-old fish found in Wyoming; Crocodile coprolites in South Carolina

Explore the fascinating world of fossils with our quiz on fossil types and how they form. Learn about trace and body fossils, the types of rocks that preserve them, and the unique amber fossils. Test your knowledge on ancient life and their remains!