What is described as the remains or impression of a plant or animal from a past geological age?

The term that describes the remains or impressions of plants or animals from past geological ages is fossil. Fossils provide invaluable insights into the history of life on Earth, showing how different species have evolved over millions of years. They can include not only hardened remains like bones and shells but also impressions that capture the characteristics of ancient organisms, such as footprints or leaf imprints.

In contrast, artifacts refer specifically to objects made or modified by humans, typically studied in archaeology, and are not related to biological remains. Specimens often refer to selected examples of biological or geologic material kept for study, but they do not specifically denote ancient organisms as fossils do. Residue typically refers to leftover material from a process, which does not encompass the complete idea of preserved ancient life forms. Understanding fossils is crucial for studying the Earth's history and the evolution of life.