Fossils are formed in different ways, but most are formed when a plant or animal dies in a watery environment and is buried in mud and silt. Soft tissues quickly decompose leaving the hard bones or shells behind. Over time sediment builds over the top and hardens into rock.
What are 3 ways fossils are formed?
The chances of becoming a fossil are enhanced by quick burial and the presence of preservable hard parts, such as bones or shells. Fossils form in five ways: preservation of original remains, permineralization, molds and casts, replacement, and compression.
What are the four steps to the fossilization process?
Terms in this set (6)
- death. Death must occur if the process is to begin.
- decomposition. The soft tissue decomposes, if not eaten by scavengers, leaving only the bones behind. ...
- transportation. ...
- weathering and burial. ...
- fossilization. ...
- erosion and discovery.
