Dinosaur fossil The fossilized remains of a dinosaur on display at the Field Museum of Natural History, Chicago. (more) How Are Fossils Formed? Ask the Chatbot a Question More Actions Share Share Share to social media Facebook X URL https://www.britannica.com/topic/How-Are-Fossils-Formed Feedback Corrections? Updates? Omissions? Let us know if you have suggestions to improve this article (requires login). Feedback Type Select a type (Required) Factual Correction Spelling/Grammar Correction Link Correction Additional Information Other Your Feedback Submit Feedback Thank you for your feedback Our editors will review what you’ve submitted and determine whether to revise the article.

　　External Websites Ask the Chatbot a Question Written and fact-checked by The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica Encyclopaedia Britannica's editors oversee subject areas in which they have extensive knowledge, whether from years of experience gained by working on that content or via study for an advanced degree. They write new content and verify and edit content received from contributors. The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica Last Updated: Mar 18, 2025 • Article History Table of Contents Table of Contents Ask the Chatbot Fossils are most often formed from organisms that have a solid and resistant skeleton. Hard parts, such as bones and teeth, are more likely to survive the ravages of time compared to their softer counterparts, which tend to decompose rapidly. When an organism with such hard parts dies and is quickly buried, this sets the stage for the long, slow process of fossilization. Once buried, the hard parts of the organism undergo a transformation. Over time, minerals from the surrounding sediment seep into the pores of the bones or shells. This mineral infusion can turn the organic material into stone, ...(100 of 155 words)

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