Amber forms from tree resin over millions of years. Here’s how:
- Pine Tree Resin: Pine trees secrete sticky resin to protect themselves.
- Burial and Compression: Over time, this resin falls into the ground, where it is buried by sediment.
- Hardening Process: Under pressure and heat, the resin transforms into amber over millions of years.
Amber can preserve insects or plant parts that got trapped in the resin. This makes it a valuable fossil record!
Pro tip: Some amber contains ancient DNA, which scientists use to study prehistoric life.