What type of rocks are fossils usually found in

Much of what we know about how life has evolved comes from fossils. The physical remains of organisms and the evidence of behaviors, such as footprints, tell us where, how, and who ancient life was. Uncovering the fossil record requires scientists with many different areas of expertise, including geology.

Understanding geology is critical to studying paleontology because fossils are preserved in rock. The characteristics of the rocks that hold fossils can be as informative as the fossils themselves. 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. This is because they are already in locations where sediment is likely to bury them and shelter them from scavengers and decay.

Mudstone, shale, and limestone are examples of sedimentary rock likely to contain fossils. As the layers of sediment build up on top of one another, they create a physical timeline. In other words, the biosphere can only interact with the sediments. Why are sedimentary rocks the only rock type to contain fossils?

Earth Science Rocks Sedimentary Rocks. Seryozha R. Dec 19, See below. Explanation: Well, as you know, there are three types of rocks. There are igneous rocks metamorphic rocks sedimentary rocks. Related questions What are sediments and how are they formed? How are sediments classified?

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