Examkin

Question

Difficulty: MediumEvidence for Evolution: Paleontology and Fossil Records

A paleontologist analyzes a fossil specimen recovered from a shale layer and observes that the organic tissues of the ancient plant have decayed, leaving a detailed three-dimensional impression of its outer surface in the surrounding hardened rock matrix without preserving any internal anatomical details. Which mode of fossil formation is described by this observation?

  1. Natural moldAnswer
  2. B
    Permineralization
  3. C
    Amber entrapment
  4. D
    Acquired somatic preservation

Answer

Natural mold formation is the process where an organism dissolves or decays within sediment, leaving a hollow cavity that preserves its external shape.
The description specifies that the original plant tissue completely decayed, leaving behind an impression of its outer surface in the surrounding rock matrix. This process produces a natural mold.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the fossil characteristics provided in the scenario.
The organic material has completely decayed, leaving only a hollow impression of the outer surface without internal structure.
Identifying key physical characteristics distinguishes distinct geological fossilization modes.
2
Evaluate the geological definitions of fossilization types.
A mold is formed when sediment hardens around an organism and the original body subsequently dissolves, leaving a negative space reflecting its external shape.
Connecting physical features to geological terminology provides the definitive answer.

Key Concept

Modes of fossilization and paleontology evidence
Rate this question

Topics

Evidence for Evolution: Paleontology and Fossil Records

More questions from this topic