Fossils are the preserved remains or traces of ancient life that offer a window into Earth’s history. Typically defined as evidence at least 10,000 years old, they range from massive dinosaur skeletons to microscopic pollen grains. Because most organisms decompose after death, the formation of a fossil is a rare event requiring specific conditions: rapid burial in sediment (like mud or sand) to prevent decay and scavenging, and often the presence of hard parts like bones, teeth, or shells. How Fossils Form
The process of fossilization, or taphonomy, can occur in several ways depending on the environment: Fossils