Fossil

Fossil

A fossil is the preserved remains or traces of animals, plants, and other organisms from the remote past. The totality of fossils, both discovered and undiscovered, and their placement in fossil-containing rock formations and sedimentary layers (strata) is known as the fossil record.

Etymology

The word fossil is derived from the Latin fossilis, which means "dug up". This term was used in the 16th century for anything unearthed, including ancient artifacts.

Formation

Fossils are formed in a number of different ways, but most are formed when a plant or animal dies in a watery environment and is buried in mud and silt. Over time, the remains may turn into fossil fuels like oil or coal.

Types of Fossils

There are two main types of fossils: body fossils and trace fossils. Body fossils are the preserved remains of a plant or animal's body. Trace fossils are the remains of the activity of an animal, such as preserved trackways, footprints, fossilized egg shells, and nests.

Study of Fossils

Paleontology is the study of fossils. Through the study of fossils, ancient environments, ecosystems, and the life forms they contain, scientists can learn about the past and the history of life on Earth.

Importance of Fossils

Fossils are important evidence for the theory of evolution. They show the types of plants and animals that have existed throughout Earth's history and the relationships between different species.

See Also

• Paleontology
• Fossil record
• Fossil fuel
• Evolution

References

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