Geology and Earth's History Quiz

Approximately how many years ago did the solar system originate?

• 1,000,000,000

• 4,600,000,000

• 570,000,000

• 13,700,000,000

Approximately what percent of geologic time since the estimated origin of the Earth is represented by the Precambrian Eon?

• 89%

• 65%

• 37%

• 10%

Which event is primarily responsible for the production of oxygen that first entered into Earth's early atmosphere?

• evolution of oxygen-producing organisms

• radioactive decay of isotopes producing oxygen

• separation of oxygen from hydrogen in water

• oxygen-rich comets impacting Earth

Evidence indicates that 251 million years ago a mass extinction of many life-forms occurred on Earth. Which form of life became extinct at this time?

• trilobites

• mammoths

• eurypterids

• dinosaurs

What is the approximate percentage of geologic time that humans have existed on Earth since its origin?

• more than 85%

• less than 1%

• 20%

• 60%

According to the fossil record, the sequence [soft-bodied organisms → fish → amphibians → mammals] correctly represents what about life on Earth?

• Lifeforms became more simplified.

• Lifeforms needed carbon dioxide to survive.

• Lifeforms became more complex and diverse.

• Lifeforms on Earth originated from meteorites and comets.

The changes observed in the fossil record from the Precambrian Era to the Cenozoic Era best provide evidence of

• evolution

• radioactive decay

• planetary motion

• sublimation

Which type of rock is formed from the cooling and solidification of magma or lava?

• Fossiliferous

• Igneous

• Metamorphic

• Sedimentary

What is the primary process that leads to the formation of sedimentary rocks?

• Metamorphism

• Crystallization

• Weathering and erosion

• Melting