History of Life on Earth Unit Flashcard

Front

What is the geologic time scale?

Back

A record of the life forms and geologic events in Earth's history.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS1-4

Front

Which rock layer is the oldest?

Back

The rock layer labeled 'D' is the oldest.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS1-4

Front

What is the term for the youngest rock layer?

Back

The rock layer at the top of the Grand Canyon is the youngest.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS1-4

Front

What is the absolute age of a rock or fossil?

Back

The actual age of a rock or fossil, measured in years.

Front

What substances can help preserve animal remains?

Back

Tar, amber, and ice can help preserve parts or a whole animal.

Front

What is the difference between relative age and absolute age?

Back

Relative age is the age of a rock compared to other rocks, while absolute age is the actual age in years.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS1-4

Front

What is carbonization in fossil preservation?

Back

A process where organic material is reduced to carbon, preserving the shape of the organism.

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS4-1

Front

What is the significance of the oldest rock layer?

Back

It provides information about the earliest life forms and geological events on Earth.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS1-4

Front

How do scientists determine the age of fossils?

Back

By using methods like radiometric dating and studying the layers of rock in which they are found.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS1-4

Front

What is the principle of superposition?

Back

In undisturbed rock layers, the oldest layers are at the bottom and the youngest are at the top.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS1-4