Biology Topic Practice
Fossils: Records of the Past
Fossils provide the primary evidence for how organisms have changed over millions of years.
Why is the fossil record incomplete?
What is Fossils: Records of the Past?
"Fossils are the preserved remains, or traces of remains, of ancient organisms."
Question 1
What is extinction?
Question 2
Why is the fossil record incomplete?
Question 3
Why is the fossil record incomplete?
Evidence from Rocks
Mineralization: Hard parts (bones/shells) are replaced by minerals over time.
Traces: Burrows, footprints, and rootlet traces left in soft mud.
Preservation: Organisms trapped in ice or amber where decay cannot occur.
Exam Tip
Fossils help us see the transition between different groups of animals.
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