Fossils, Evolution, and the Tree of Life — Understanding Ancient Life from Earth’s Rock Record | Interlude E from Earth: Portrait of a Planet
Fossils, Evolution, and the Tree of Life — Understanding Ancient Life from Earth’s Rock Record | Interlude E from Earth: Portrait of a Planet How do fossils form, and what do they teach us about life’s journey on Earth? In Interlude E of Earth: Portrait of a Planet , Stephen Marshak guides us through the science of fossils—how they preserve the story of evolution, extinction, and the branching tree of life. For a visual summary and expert breakdown, watch the chapter video on YouTube or read on for an in-depth blog summary. What Are Fossils and How Do They Form? Body Fossils: Remains of organisms such as bones, shells, and teeth that have been preserved in rock. Trace Fossils: Evidence of life’s activity—footprints, burrows, coprolites, and feeding marks. Chemical Fossils: Biomarkers and isotopic signatures in rocks, revealing the presence and metabolism of ancient life. Fossilization Processes: Includes rapid burial, mineral replacement, permineralization, ca...