Question

What is the definition for fossil records and what are some examples for how it is used?

Answer 1

Hint: A group of fossils which has been analyzed and arranged in chronological order is a fossil record. When an organism dies, the remains are encased by dirt and rock, and over time are replaced slowly by minerals. This is how fossils are formed. A mineral impression of the animal which once existed is left.

Complete answer: Fossil record is the history of life reported by fossils, which is the remains and imprints of organisms in earlier geological periods sustained by sedimentary rocks.
Fossil records are defined as records of life as found in layers of sedimentary rocks. Sedimentary rocks are formed by accumulation of deposits on the surface of earth. Thus they have different layers. These layers can be found in the same order in different regions. If one piece together the parts of the order from one place with the parts of order in the other places, a geological table can be constructed. This is usually done by geological scientists. It is one example of the use of fossil records.
Further, a relative timeline of life on the earth can be constructed using geological records. This relative timeline can serve as the primary evidence of Darwinian evolution.

Note: The fossils are categorised and arranged by different specialists. This also includes comparative anatomy, radiometric dating and DNA analysis. Scientists use data from fossil records to try to recreate history of the evolution of a species or group, with reference to line descent and relationships among broad groups of organisms. Fossil record examples include human fossil record, where the fossils are differentiated by their distinct features, and is dated using radioactive isotopes, thus providing nearly every “missing link” In the chain of evolution. There are fossil records of many animals that have been assembled. For example, fossil records of whales.