We may think fossils form easily, but in reality, the process is slow and complex. It can take millions of years. First, a dead plant or animal is quickly buried by sediment, such as mud or sand. The soft parts decay, leaving behind the hard parts. Over time, more layers build up and press down on the buried organism. This pressure turns the lower layers into rock. As the rock forms, minerals seep into the cells and slowly replace them. This process, called fossilization, preserves the shape of the organism as a mineral copy from long ago.
Hyundong Lee Staff Reporter kids/1778026626/1613368218
1. What must happen first for fossils to begin forming?
2. What happens to soft parts of organisms over time?
3. What replaces the cells during fossilization process?
1. Do you enjoy learning about fossils in science class?
2. Have you ever seen fossils at a museum or park?
3. Do you think science is fun or difficult to learn?
We may think fossils form easily, but in reality, the process is slow and complex.
