GED Science Practice

What is a fossil?

1. fuel consisting of the remains of organisms preserved in rocks in the earth's crust with high carbon and hydrogen content

2. the combining of images from the two eyes to form a single visual percept

3. Twins who develop from two separate fertilized eggs. They are genetically no more similar than brother or sisters but they have the same fetal environment

4. the remains (or an impression) of a plant or animal that existed in a past geological age and that has been excavated from the soil

The correct answer is: the remains (or an impression) of a plant or animal that existed in a past geological age and that has been excavated from the soil

A fossil is defined as the remains or an impression of a plant or animal that existed in a past geological age and has been preserved in the earth's layers. This definition emphasizes the connection between fossils and the historical biological entities they represent, providing vital evidence of prehistoric life and the evolution of species over time. Fossils can include bones, shells, imprints, or traces left by organisms, and they can give insights into the environmental conditions of the Earth at different points in its history. The other options describe entirely different concepts unrelated to the definition of a fossil. For instance, one option discusses a type of fuel derived from organic matter, highlighting decomposition and energy sources rather than the preservation of ancient life. Another option refers to the visual perception process involving the eyes, which is a physiological and neurological phenomenon. The last option describes a biological situation related to twins, focusing on genetics and development rather than paleontology. Thus, option D properly encapsulates the concept of a fossil, providing the necessary context to understand its significance in science.