A fossil is a

Options

A. Naturally preserved remains or traces of animals or plants
B. Dead animal of the past
C. Organic relic of the past
D. Stuffed animal.

Answer

### Step-by-Step Text Solution:

1. **Understanding Fossils**:
- A fossil is defined as the preserved remains or traces of ancient organisms, which can include both plants and animals. These remains are not the actual organisms but rather the impressions or traces they left behind.

2. **Analyzing the Options**:
- **Option A**: Naturally preserved remains or traces of animals or plants.
- **Option B**: Dead animal of the past.
- **Option C**: Organic relic of the past.
- **Option D**: Stuffed animal.

3. **Evaluating Each Option**:
- **Option A**: This option accurately describes fossils as they are indeed naturally preserved and consist of remains or traces of ancient life.
- **Option B**: This option is incorrect because a fossil is not just a dead animal; it is the impression or trace left by that animal.
- **Option C**: This option is also misleading as it suggests a broader category that does not specifically define what a fossil is.
- **Option D**: This option is incorrect because fossils are not stuffed animals; they are the impressions left by organisms.

4. **Conclusion**:
- After evaluating all the options, it is clear that **Option A** is the correct answer. A fossil is a naturally preserved remains or traces of animals or plants.

### Final Answer:
A fossil is a **naturally preserved remains or traces of animals or plants** (Option A).

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