Earth's History and Geologic Time Flashcard

Front

What is the estimated age of the Earth according to paleontologists?

Back

4.6 billion years old

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS1-4

Front

What does the law of superposition state about the age of fossils in rock layers?

Back

The oldest fossils are found near the bottom of the rock layers.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS1-4

Front

List the four geological eras in order from oldest to newest.

Back

Pre-Cambrian, Paleozoic, Mesozoic, Cenozoic.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS1-4

Front

In which geological era were dinosaurs and reptiles dominant?

Back

Mesozoic.

Front

True or False: Extinction of species has occurred regularly throughout Earth's history.

Back

True.

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS4-1

Front

What is the significance of the Pre-Cambrian era in Earth's history?

Back

It is the longest era, covering about 88% of Earth's history, and includes the formation of the Earth and the earliest life forms.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS1-4

Front

What major events characterize the Paleozoic era?

Back

The emergence of fish, amphibians, and the first land plants, as well as the formation of supercontinents.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS1-4

Front

What are the main characteristics of the Mesozoic era?

Back

It is known as the age of reptiles, including dinosaurs, and features the breakup of the supercontinent Pangaea.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS1-4

NGSS.MS-ESS2-3

Front

What significant changes occurred during the Cenozoic era?

Back

The rise of mammals and birds, and the development of modern ecosystems.

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS4-1

Front

What is a mass extinction event?

Back

A widespread and rapid decrease in the biodiversity on Earth, often resulting in the extinction of a large number of species.

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS2-4

NGSS.MS-LS4-1