Which of the following rock preserves the fossilsa)Igneousb)Metamorphi...
Answer :
There are three main types of rock: igneous rock, metamorphic rock, and sedimentary rock. Almost all fossils are preserved in sedimentary rock. Organisms that live in topographically low places (such as lakes or ocean basins) have the best chance of being preserved.
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Which of the following rock preserves the fossilsa)Igneousb)Metamorphi...
Answer :
There are three main types of rock: igneous rock, metamorphic rock, and sedimentary rock. Almost all fossils are preserved in sedimentary rock. Organisms that live in topographically low places (such as lakes or ocean basins) have the best chance of being preserved.
Which of the following rock preserves the fossilsa)Igneousb)Metamorphi...
Understanding Fossil Preservation
Fossils are vital for understanding the history of life on Earth. The type of rock that preserves fossils is primarily sedimentary rock. Here’s why:
Characteristics of Sedimentary Rock
- Formation Process: Sedimentary rocks form from the accumulation and compression of mineral and organic particles over time. This process often takes place in water bodies, where organisms live and eventually die.
- Ideal Environment for Fossils: The gentle conditions in which sedimentary rocks form allow for the preservation of soft-bodied organisms, along with hard parts like shells and bones.
Comparison with Other Rock Types
- Igneous Rocks:
- Formation: Created from cooled magma or lava.
- Fossil Preservation: The intense heat involved in their formation destroys any fossils, making them unsuitable for fossil preservation.
- Metamorphic Rocks:
- Formation: Formed from existing rocks that undergo changes due to heat and pressure.
- Fossil Preservation: Similar to igneous rocks, the conditions that lead to metamorphism can also obliterate fossils, thus they rarely contain any.
Conclusion
In summary, sedimentary rocks are the primary rocks that preserve fossils due to their gentle formation process, which allows for the encapsulation of organic materials. Igneous and metamorphic rocks are not suitable for fossil preservation because of the extreme conditions they undergo during their formation.