---
title: "Fossils — AP Biology Definition & Exam Guide"
description: "Fossils are preserved remains or traces of ancient organisms, and in AP Bio they calibrate phylogenetic trees and show evolution is an ongoing process."
canonical: "https://fiveable.me/ap-bio/key-terms/fossils"
type: "key-term"
subject: "AP Biology"
---

# Fossils — AP Biology Definition & Exam Guide

## Definition

Fossils are the preserved remains or traces of animals, plants, and other organisms from the remote past.

## Related Study Guides

- [7.8 Continuing Evolution](/ap-bio/unit-7/continuing-evolution/study-guide/fb67fTvqhnbBXkLYOazP)
- [7.9 Phylogeny](/ap-bio/unit-7/phylogeny/study-guide/jpSuwEfOUXMb3aXNAeBk)

## Review

### Related Terms

- Paleontology: The scientific study of the history of life on Earth through the examination of plant and animal fossils.
- Sedimentary Rock: A type of rock that is formed by sedimentation of material at the Earth's surface and within bodies of water. This is where most fossils are found.
- Petrification: A process in which organic material is converted into stone through the replacement of the original material and filling spaces with minerals.