- Scientists found small molecules in fossil bones.
- These molecules come from animal metabolism.
- Researchers used them to learn about animals.
- They also learned about old environments.
- The places were warmer and wetter then.
- They compared fossils with living animals today.
- Plant molecules showed what animals ate.
- One fossil showed signs of infection.
- The work gives new information about past life.
Difficult words
- molecule — A very small piece of a substance.molecules
- fossil — A preserved part of an old animal or plant.fossil bones, fossils
- metabolism — The chemical processes inside a living body.
- environment — The natural place where plants and animals live.environments
- infection — When germs cause illness in the body.
- researcher — A person who studies or tests things.Researchers
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Have you ever seen a fossil?
- Do you like learning about old animals?
- What do animals eat near you?
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