1.
A _______________ is where a large number of species die off at the same time.
Correct Answer
D. Mass extinction
Explanation
A mass extinction refers to a situation where a significant number of species die off simultaneously. This event can occur due to various factors such as natural disasters, climate change, or human activities. Mass extinctions have happened several times in the Earth's history, with the most well-known example being the extinction of the dinosaurs. These events have a profound impact on ecosystems and can lead to significant changes in the composition and diversity of life on Earth.
2.
At the beginning of the Paleozoic Era was the _______________ explosion, in which a large variety of organisms developed and evolved.
Correct Answer
C. Cambrian
Explanation
During the Cambrian explosion, which occurred at the beginning of the Paleozoic Era, a diverse range of organisms developed and evolved. This period is known for the rapid appearance of many complex animal forms, including the first appearance of hard-shelled animals and the emergence of various marine ecosystems. The Cambrian explosion marks a significant milestone in the history of life on Earth, as it led to the establishment of the major animal groups that still exist today.
3.
During the ______________ Period, there were huge insects, due in part to the large amount of oxygen in the atmosphere.
Correct Answer
B. Carboniferous
Explanation
During the Carboniferous Period, there were huge insects, due in part to the large amount of oxygen in the atmosphere. The Carboniferous Period, which lasted from about 359 to 299 million years ago, was characterized by high levels of atmospheric oxygen. This abundance of oxygen allowed insects to grow to much larger sizes than they are today. Fossil evidence from this period shows the existence of giant dragonflies and other insects with wingspans of over two feet. The high oxygen levels also supported the growth of dense forests, which eventually became the coal deposits that give the Carboniferous its name.
4.
What is the correct order of the Eras occurring after Precambrian Time?
Correct Answer
A. Paleozoic, Mesozoic, Cenozoic
Explanation
The correct order of the Eras occurring after Precambrian Time is Paleozoic, Mesozoic, Cenozoic. This is because the Paleozoic Era occurred first, followed by the Mesozoic Era, and then the Cenozoic Era. The Paleozoic Era is known for the development of complex life forms, such as fish, insects, and amphibians. The Mesozoic Era is commonly referred to as the Age of Dinosaurs, as it was during this time that dinosaurs dominated the Earth. Finally, the Cenozoic Era is the current era and is characterized by the rise of mammals and the evolution of humans.
5.
The _______________ Era is referred to as the "Age of Reptiles," because _______________ were the dominant life form.
Correct Answer
B. Mesozoic; dinosaurs
Explanation
During the Mesozoic Era, dinosaurs were the dominant life form. This era, which lasted from about 252 to 66 million years ago, is often referred to as the "Age of Reptiles" because dinosaurs ruled the land during this time. They were a diverse group of reptiles that thrived and evolved into various species, occupying different ecological niches. The dominance of dinosaurs during the Mesozoic Era had a significant impact on the Earth's ecosystems and shaped the evolutionary trajectory of many other organisms.
6.
The ________________ Era is referred to as the "Age of Mammals," since mammals like humans, are the dominant life form.
Correct Answer
C. Cenozoic
Explanation
The Cenozoic Era is referred to as the "Age of Mammals" because it is the time period when mammals, including humans, became the dominant life form on Earth. This era began approximately 66 million years ago and continues to the present day. During this time, mammals diversified and evolved into various forms, occupying different ecological niches. The Cenozoic Era is characterized by the emergence of primates, including humans, and the development of complex ecosystems that we see today.
7.
The Eoarchean era is the first era of the Proterozoic Eon.
Correct Answer
B. Flase
Explanation
The Eoarchean era is the first era of the Archean Eon of the geologic record for which the Earth has a solid crust.