1 - introduction to paleo Flashcards
(6 cards)
1
Q
What is palaeontology
A
The study of fossils - traces of life
2
Q
5 steps to palaeontology
A
1) collect fossils in the field
2) prepare fossils in the lab
3) Examine and analyse fossil
4) Describe fossil in monograph
5) Interpret fossil
3
Q
What is a monograph
A
a detailed written study of a single specialized subject or an aspect of it.
4
Q
How much of the planet is covered in sedimentary rock
A
75% - this represents a wealth of undiscovered fossils
5
Q
when did the science of palaeontology develop
A
1750s-2000s - a long history of developments in the field
6
Q
state of palaeontology in pre-1750
A
People didn’t really know what fossils were :
- some thought they were minerals which resembled life
- began to realise they were remains of organisms
