Fossiloitumiseen

Fossiloitumiseen, commonly referred to as fossilization, is the geological process by which the remains of living organisms are transformed into fossils over time. This process typically occurs after death when an organism's soft tissues decompose, leaving behind the harder parts like bones, shells, or teeth. For fossilization to occur, the remains must be protected from scavengers and the elements, often by being rapidly buried in sediment such as mud, sand, or volcanic ash.

Over vast periods, minerals present in the surrounding groundwater seep into the porous structures of the remains. These minerals gradually replace the original organic material, a process known as permineralization. In some cases, the original material can be dissolved entirely, leaving a hollow mold that can later be filled with minerals, creating a cast fossil. Other forms of fossilization include carbonization, where organic material is compressed and a thin carbon film remains, and preservation in amber, ice, or tar. The specific conditions and the type of original material dictate the particular method of fossilization. These preserved remnants provide invaluable insights into the history of life on Earth.