In what kind of rock CAN fossils form?
Question
In what kind of rock CAN fossils form?
Solution
Fossils can form in sedimentary rocks. Here's the step-by-step process:
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An organism dies: The process of fossilization begins when an organism dies. It's important that the organism quickly gets covered by sediment. This sediment can be sand, silt, or clay.
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Sedimentation: Over time, more and more sediment layers build up on top of the organism. The weight of the upper layers compresses the lower layers into rock.
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Decay: Most of the organism decays or is eaten away. However, the hard parts like bones and shells are left behind.
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Mineralization: Over thousands of years, water seeping through the rock can deposit minerals in the bones and shells, turning them into stone.
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Erosion: Eventually, erosion or people digging can reveal the fossil.
It's important to note that not all organisms become fossils. The conditions have to be just right. That's why fossils provide only a fragmentary record of life on Earth.
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