fossilization

Fossilization is the process by which organic materials, like plants and animals, become preserved as fossils over time. This typically occurs when an organism is buried under sediment, which protects it from decay. Minerals gradually replace the original organic material, turning it into rock. Fossils can provide valuable information about past life forms, environments, and Earth's history. The process can take thousands to millions of years and can result in different types of fossils, such as molds, casts, or actual remains. Fossilization helps scientists understand evolution and the changes that have occurred on our planet.