Fossilized Plants

The fossilization of plants occur when water containing dissolved minerals leach into the cells and space of decaying plant matter. Much like how salt water can form salt crystals, the minerals occupying the cells and space will crystallize, preserving the plant form. Fossilized plants have helped scientists discover Earth's past climates and aid in the studies of climate change today. Fossil fuels are another way that fossilized plants are used. The accumulation of layers of rocks and sediment on fossilized plants and animals create fossil energy sources. The U.S. National Academies of Sciences states, "The United States gets 81% of its total energy from oil, coal, and natural gas, all of which are fossil fuels."

  Above: fossilized gingko next to non-fossilized gingko leaf

 Above: fossilized fern

 Above: fossilized pinecone