Cast Fossils Definition
Cast fossils form when minerals or sediments fill molds and harden. For example, a leaf mold fills and hardens, creating a leaf-shaped fossil.
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The Fossil Record
Fun Facts
- Cast fossils can get filled in with minerals, forming solid rock.
- Cast fossils keep the shape of the organism.
- Weathering or erosion is needed to expose cast fossils to the surface.
Why Do We Need To Know About Cast Fossils
Learning about cast fossils helps us understand Earth’s history and why these fossils are important for science. Cast fossils are made when minerals fill up the space left by decayed organisms, creating a solid copy of the organism. This helps scientists learn about what life was like millions of years ago, including how creatures evolved and how the environment has changed.
This knowledge is useful for people like paleontologists, geologists, museum workers, and teachers. They use cast fossils to do research, teach others, and learn more about our planet’s past. Knowing about cast fossils connects classroom learning with the real world, showing why they’re important for science and education.
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