As a paleontologist with a focus on fossilization processes, I can tell you that the journey of becoming a fossil is a complex and lengthy one. It involves a series of biological, geological, and chemical transformations that can take thousands to millions of years. The process is not only dependent on the time elapsed but also on a variety of factors that influence the preservation of organic material.

Firstly, the death of an organism is the starting point. The remains must be quickly buried by sediment to protect them from scavengers and decomposition. This initial burial is crucial as it provides the necessary anoxic conditions to slow down the decay process.

Secondly, the type of environment where the organism dies plays a significant role. Different environments offer varying degrees of protection. For instance, a riverbed or a lake bottom might provide a more conducive environment for fossilization than a dry, exposed area.

Thirdly, the chemical composition of the organism is also a determining factor. Hard parts such as bones, teeth, and shells are more likely to fossilize than soft tissues. However, under the right conditions, even soft tissues can be preserved, as seen in the exceptional preservation of specimens in the Burgess Shale.

Fourthly, the mineralization process is where the organic material is replaced by minerals. This can occur through a process called permineralization, where minerals infiltrate the pores of the organic material and solidify, or through a process where the original organic material is replaced by minerals from the surrounding sediment.

Fifthly, the geological time scale is another aspect to consider. The Earth's crust is dynamic, with tectonic movements that can uplift, bury, or even erode away sedimentary layers. These movements can either aid in the preservation of fossils by burying them deeper, or destroy them by bringing them to the surface and exposing them to erosion.

Lastly, the discovery of a fossil is not the end of its journey. Once unearthed, the fossil must be carefully extracted, preserved, and studied. This process can take additional time, depending on the complexity of the excavation and the rarity of the specimen.

In conclusion, the process of becoming a fossil is not as straightforward as reaching a specific age. It is a multifaceted process that depends on a combination of factors, including the initial conditions of burial, the type of environment, the organism's composition, the mineralization process, and the geological history of the area. The timeline for fossilization can vary greatly, from a few thousand years for some exceptional cases to millions of years for others.

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Answer: Fossils are defined as the remains or traces of organisms that died more than 10,000 years ago, therefore, by definition the minimum time it takes to make a fossil is 10,000 years. But, that is just an arbitrary line in the sand -C it means very little in terms of the fossilisation process.Feb 12, 2015read more >>