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Fundamentals of Palaeontology

Palaeontology

A quiz covering basic concepts of ancient life, fossils, and geological history.

science fossils dinosaurs

12 Questions Easy Ages 13+ Oct 9, 2026

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About this Study Set

This study set covers Palaeontology through 12 practice questions. A quiz covering basic concepts of ancient life, fossils, and geological history. Every question includes the correct answer so you can learn as you go — pick any format above to get started.

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1 What is the study of ancient life through the examination of fossils called?

A Archaeology
B Palaeontology
C Biology
D Geology

2 Which type of rock are most fossils found in?

A Igneous
B Metamorphic
C Sedimentary
D Volcanic

3 What term describes an organism that no longer has any living members on Earth?

A Endangered
B Extinct
C Evolved
D Domesticated

4 Which of these is considered a 'trace fossil' rather than a body fossil?

A A dinosaur footprint
B A preserved skull
C A fossilized tooth
D An insect in amber

5 During which geological era did the dinosaurs live?

A Cenozoic
B Paleozoic
C Mesozoic
D Precambrian

6 What is the process called when minerals replace the organic material of a once-living organism?

A Carbonization
B Petrifaction
C Evaporation
D Erosion

7 Which scientific tool is used to determine the age of a fossil by measuring radioactive decay?

A Radiometric dating
B Carbon dating
C Relative dating
D Stratigraphy

8 Which famous scientist is credited with developing the theory of evolution by natural selection?

A Isaac Newton
B Charles Darwin
C Gregor Mendel
D Louis Pasteur

9 What do palaeontologists call the preserved remains or impressions of prehistoric life?

A Artifacts
B Relics
C Fossils
D Minerals

10 Which period of the Mesozoic Era is often referred to as the 'Age of Dinosaurs'?

A Jurassic
B Cambrian
C Devonian
D Silurian

11 What is a coprolite?

A A type of fossilized plant
B Fossilized animal dung
C A prehistoric skin impression
D A fossilized egg shell

12 Which layer of the Earth's crust helps scientists determine the relative age of fossils based on their depth?

A Core
B Mantle
C Strata
D Atmosphere

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