Earth's History Questions! Trivia
What do you know about the earth’s history? Would you be able to pass this quiz? This quiz will inquire about which layer of the planet is the coolest, when the Precambrian Eon began and ended, the group of fossils found together in only one layer of rock, and how old the earth is. Historically speaking, you should unearth a lot of information with this quiz. Good Luck.
Questions and Answers
- 1.
Fossils are made when...
- A.
Minerals in the ground replace the dead thing as it breaks down
- B.
Organisms are trapped in amber or asphalt, preserving their body.
- C.
Traces of living organisms are found, such as burrows or footprints.
- D.
All of the above
Correct Answer
D. All of the aboveExplanation
Fossils are formed through various processes. One way is through mineralization, where minerals in the ground replace the organic material of a dead organism as it decomposes. Another way is through the preservation of organisms in substances like amber or asphalt, which can protect and maintain their bodies over time. Additionally, fossils can also be formed through the preservation of traces left by living organisms, such as burrows or footprints. Therefore, all of the given options are correct explanations for how fossils are made.Rate this question:
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- 2.
The earth is 4.6 ______ years old.
- A.
Billion
- B.
Mega-Million
- C.
Trillion
- D.
Million
Correct Answer
A. BillionExplanation
The earth is estimated to be approximately 4.6 billion years old. This age is determined through various scientific methods such as radiometric dating of rocks and minerals. These methods allow scientists to calculate the age of the earth by measuring the decay of radioactive isotopes. The billion-year timescale aligns with the geological evidence and the evolution of life on earth.Rate this question:
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- 3.
Fossils are made when...
- A.
Minerals in the ground replace the dead thing as it breaks down
- B.
Organisms are trapped in amber or asphalt, preserving their body.
- C.
Traces of living organisms are found, such as burrows or footprints.
- D.
All of the above
Correct Answer
D. All of the aboveExplanation
Fossils are formed through various processes. The first option states that minerals in the ground replace the dead thing as it breaks down, which refers to the process of mineralization. The second option mentions organisms being trapped in amber or asphalt, which is known as preservation through resin or tar. The third option talks about traces of living organisms like burrows or footprints, which are known as trace fossils. Therefore, all of the options mentioned contribute to the formation of fossils.Rate this question:
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- 4.
What statement best describes the principle of superposition?
- A.
Sediments are deposited as essentially horizontal layers
- B.
Inclusions are older than the rocks they are contained in
- C.
Sediments spread out in all directions when they are deposited
- D.
Undisturbed sedimentary layers get younger from bottom to top
Correct Answer
D. Undisturbed sedimentary layers get younger from bottom to topExplanation
The principle of superposition states that in an undisturbed sequence of sedimentary rock layers, the youngest rocks are found at the top, while the oldest rocks are found at the bottom. This is because each layer of sediment is deposited on top of the previous layer, resulting in a chronological order with the youngest layer on top. This principle is a fundamental concept in geology and helps scientists understand the relative ages of different rock layers and the events that occurred in Earth's history.Rate this question:
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- 5.
What is an unconformity?
- A.
A gap in the geologic record
- B.
A sequence of deformed rocks
- C.
A sedimentary layer of variable thickness
- D.
A period of deposition
Correct Answer
A. A gap in the geologic recordExplanation
An unconformity refers to a gap in the geologic record, where there is a discontinuity or missing layer of rock. It represents a period of time where no deposition or preservation of rock layers occurred. Unconformities are significant in understanding the geological history of an area as they indicate periods of erosion, uplift, or non-deposition, which can provide insights into past environmental changes and tectonic activity.Rate this question:
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- 6.
Human beings (homo sapiens) evolved during which geologic era?
- A.
Precambrian
- B.
Mesozoic
- C.
Paleozoic
- D.
Cenozoic
Correct Answer
D. CenozoicExplanation
The correct answer is cenozoic. The Cenozoic era, also known as the Age of Mammals, is the most recent geologic era and is characterized by the dominance of mammals on Earth. It began approximately 66 million years ago and continues to the present day. During this era, human beings (homo sapiens) evolved and emerged as the dominant species on Earth.Rate this question:
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- 7.
Identify the MANTLE on the diagram below.
- A.
Layer A
- B.
Layer B
- C.
Layer C
- D.
Layer D
Correct Answer
B. Layer BExplanation
Layer B is identified as the MANTLE on the diagram.Rate this question:
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- 8.
Which layer is the coolest (in temperature)?
- A.
Crust
- B.
Mantle
- C.
Inner Core
- D.
Outer Core
Correct Answer
A. CrustExplanation
The crust is the coolest layer in temperature because it is the outermost layer of the Earth's surface. It is composed of solid rock and has the lowest temperature compared to the other layers. The mantle, inner core, and outer core are all hotter than the crust due to the intense heat generated by the Earth's core and the movement of molten materials.Rate this question:
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- 9.
The Precambrian Eon began and ended when?
- A.
4.6 bya-570mya
- B.
570 mya-250 mya
- C.
250 mya-65mya
- D.
65 mya-present day
Correct Answer
A. 4.6 bya-570myaExplanation
The Precambrian Eon began approximately 4.6 billion years ago and ended around 570 million years ago. This eon covers a vast period of time before the appearance of complex life forms on Earth. It includes the formation of the Earth, the development of the atmosphere, the emergence of single-celled organisms, and the evolution of early multicellular life. The end of the Precambrian Eon marked a significant transition in Earth's history, as it led to the explosion of diverse life forms during the subsequent Paleozoic Era.Rate this question:
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- 10.
A group of fossils found together in only one layer of rock is called _________ fossils.
- A.
Level
- B.
Index
- C.
Main
- D.
Frequent
Correct Answer
B. IndexExplanation
A group of fossils found together in only one layer of rock is called "index" fossils. Index fossils are used by scientists to determine the relative age of rock layers. They are typically organisms that lived for a short period of time but were widespread, making them useful for correlating and dating rock layers in different locations. By identifying and comparing index fossils, scientists can determine the relative order of rock layers and understand the geological history of an area.Rate this question:
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- 11.
The Paleozoic Era began and ended when:
- A.
4.6 bya - 570 mya
- B.
570 mya-250 mya
- C.
250 mya-65 mya
- D.
65 may-present day
Correct Answer
B. 570 mya-250 myaExplanation
The Paleozoic Era began and ended between 570 million years ago and 250 million years ago. This era is known for the diversification of life forms, including the appearance of many marine invertebrates, fish, amphibians, and reptiles. It also witnessed significant geological events such as the formation of supercontinents and mass extinctions. The end of the Paleozoic Era was marked by the largest mass extinction event in Earth's history, known as the Permian-Triassic extinction, which wiped out approximately 96% of marine species and 70% of terrestrial species.Rate this question:
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- 12.
Eras are broken into ___________
- A.
Epochs
- B.
Periods
- C.
Ages
- D.
Eons
Correct Answer
B. PeriodsExplanation
Eras, which are large divisions of geologic time, are further divided into smaller units called periods. Periods represent distinct intervals of time within an era and are characterized by specific geological events and changes in the Earth's environment. This hierarchical classification allows scientists to organize and study the Earth's history in a systematic manner.Rate this question:
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- 13.
Which are the correct dates for the Precambrian Eon?
- A.
250 mya-65 mya
- B.
65 mya-present day
- C.
4.6 bya-570mya
- D.
570-mya-250mya
Correct Answer
C. 4.6 bya-570myaExplanation
The correct answer is 4.6 bya-570mya. The Precambrian Eon is the longest geological time period, spanning approximately 4.6 billion years ago to 570 million years ago. This eon is characterized by the formation of the Earth, the development of the first life forms, and the emergence of complex multicellular organisms. The other options provided in the question are incorrect as they either represent the Mesozoic Era (250 mya-65 mya), the Cenozoic Era (65 mya-present day), or do not fall within the time range of the Precambrian Eon.Rate this question:
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- 14.
Which organism lived during the Precambrian Eon?
- A.
Dinosaurs
- B.
Trilobites
- C.
Humans
- D.
Bacteria
Correct Answer
D. BacteriaExplanation
During the Precambrian Eon, which spanned from about 4.6 billion years ago to 541 million years ago, bacteria were the dominant form of life on Earth. This period predates the existence of dinosaurs, trilobites, and humans. Bacteria thrived in the ancient oceans and played a crucial role in shaping the early Earth's environment and laying the foundation for the development of more complex life forms.Rate this question:
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- 15.
How old is the Earth?
- A.
4,000 years old
- B.
4.6 mya
- C.
4.6 bya
- D.
4,600 bya
Correct Answer
C. 4.6 byaExplanation
The correct answer is 4.6 bya, which stands for 4.6 billion years ago. This answer is based on scientific evidence and geological research that suggests the Earth was formed approximately 4.6 billion years ago. This estimate is derived from various dating methods, including radiometric dating of rocks and minerals found on Earth.Rate this question:
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- 16.
The Precambrian Eon covers almost ____ percent of the Earth's history.
- A.
70
- B.
80
- C.
90
- D.
60
Correct Answer
C. 90Explanation
The Precambrian Eon covers almost 90 percent of the Earth's history. This eon is the longest and oldest division of geologic time, spanning from the formation of the Earth around 4.6 billion years ago to the beginning of the Cambrian Period around 541 million years ago. During this vast period, the Earth underwent significant geological, biological, and atmospheric changes, including the formation of the first continents, the evolution of life from simple bacteria to complex organisms, and the development of oxygen-rich atmospheres. Therefore, it is accurate to say that the Precambrian Eon covers 90 percent of the Earth's history.Rate this question:
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- 17.
Periods are broken into _____
- A.
Eons
- B.
Eras
- C.
Ages
- D.
Epochs
Correct Answer
D. EpochsExplanation
Periods, in the geological time scale, are further divided into smaller units called epochs. These epochs represent smaller divisions of time within a period and allow for a more detailed understanding of the geological history of the Earth. Each epoch is characterized by unique geological events, climate patterns, and the presence or absence of certain species. By breaking periods into epochs, scientists can better study and analyze the changes that have occurred throughout Earth's history.Rate this question:
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- 18.
Which is in order from the largest to the smallest division of time?
- A.
Ages, epochs, periods, eras, eon
- B.
Epochs, periods, ages, eras, eon
- C.
Eon, eras, periods, epochs, ages
- D.
Eras, eons, periods, epochs, ages
Correct Answer
C. Eon, eras, periods, epochs, agesExplanation
The correct answer is "Eon, eras, periods, epochs, ages". This is the correct order from the largest to the smallest division of time. An eon is the longest division of time, followed by eras, periods, epochs, and finally ages.Rate this question:
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- 19.
The Paleozoic era lasted _____ million years.
- A.
125
- B.
225
- C.
325
- D.
425
Correct Answer
C. 325Explanation
The Paleozoic era lasted 325 million years. This era is divided into six periods: Cambrian, Ordovician, Silurian, Devonian, Carboniferous, and Permian. It is known as the age of ancient life, as it saw the emergence of diverse marine life, the colonization of land by plants and animals, and the first appearance of insects, reptiles, and amphibians. The Paleozoic era ended with the largest mass extinction event in Earth's history, known as the Permian-Triassic extinction event.Rate this question:
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- 20.
During the Paleozoic Era, the Earth's interior _____.
- A.
Cooled down
- B.
Warmed up
Correct Answer
A. Cooled downExplanation
During the Paleozoic Era, the Earth's interior cooled down. This can be explained by the fact that during this era, there were significant changes in the Earth's climate and geology. The cooling down of the Earth's interior could have been a result of various processes such as the movement of tectonic plates, the formation of mountains, and the decrease in volcanic activity. These processes would have led to a decrease in the heat generated within the Earth, causing it to cool down over time.Rate this question:
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- 21.
Which took up about 90 percent of the Earth's history?
- A.
Paleozoic
- B.
Precambrian
Correct Answer
B. PrecambrianExplanation
The Precambrian era refers to the vast span of time before the emergence of complex life forms on Earth, which took up about 90 percent of the Earth's history. This era includes the formation of the Earth, the development of the atmosphere, the evolution of the first single-celled organisms, and the emergence of simple multicellular life forms. It is characterized by the absence of abundant fossil evidence and the scarcity of geological records, making it a challenging period to study.Rate this question:
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- 22.
Which of these is an Eon?
- A.
Precambrian
- B.
Mesozoic
- C.
Cenozoic
- D.
Paleozoic
Correct Answer
A. PrecambrianExplanation
The Precambrian is an Eon because it represents the longest span of Earth's history, lasting from about 4.6 billion years ago to 541 million years ago. It is divided into three major subdivisions: the Hadean, Archean, and Proterozoic. During the Precambrian, the Earth underwent significant geological and biological changes, including the formation of the first continents and the emergence of simple life forms. This eon laid the foundation for the subsequent geological eras and the evolution of complex life forms in the Phanerozoic Eon.Rate this question:
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- 23.
Which is known as the "Age of Mammals"?
- A.
Precambrian
- B.
Paleozoic
- C.
Mesozoic
- D.
Cenozoic
Correct Answer
D. CenozoicExplanation
The Cenozoic era is known as the "Age of Mammals" because it is the period in Earth's history when mammals became the dominant group of animals. This era began after the extinction of the dinosaurs at the end of the Mesozoic era, and it continues to the present day. During the Cenozoic era, mammals underwent significant diversification and evolution, leading to the development of various modern mammal species that we see today. This era is characterized by the rise of mammals as the dominant terrestrial animals and the emergence of humans.Rate this question:
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- 24.
Which is known as the "The Age of Reptiles"?
- A.
Precambrian
- B.
Paleooic
- C.
Mesozoic
- D.
Cenozoic
Correct Answer
C. MesozoicExplanation
The Mesozoic era is known as "The Age of Reptiles" because it was a time when reptiles, particularly dinosaurs, dominated the Earth. This era lasted from about 252 million years ago to 66 million years ago and was marked by the evolution and diversification of various reptilian species. The Mesozoic era is characterized by the presence of giant reptiles and the eventual extinction of dinosaurs at the end of the Cretaceous period.Rate this question:
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- 25.
What are the dates of the Mesozoic Era?
- A.
4.6 bya-570 mya
- B.
570 -250 mya
- C.
250-65 mya
- D.
65 mya-today
Correct Answer
C. 250-65 myaExplanation
The correct answer is 250-65 mya, which stands for 250 million years ago to 65 million years ago. The Mesozoic Era is commonly known as the Age of Dinosaurs and is divided into three periods: the Triassic, Jurassic, and Cretaceous. This era spanned from approximately 252 million years ago to 66 million years ago, ending with the extinction of the dinosaurs. Therefore, the dates 250-65 mya accurately represent the timeframe of the Mesozoic Era.Rate this question:
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- 26.
Which had a very warm climate?
- A.
Precambrian
- B.
Paleozoic
- C.
Mesozoic
- D.
Cenozoic
Correct Answer
C. MesozoicExplanation
The Mesozoic era had a very warm climate. This era, also known as the Age of Reptiles, occurred between 252 million and 66 million years ago. During this time, the Earth experienced high temperatures and high levels of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere, leading to a greenhouse effect and a warm climate. The Mesozoic era is famous for the dominance of dinosaurs and the development of new plant and animal species.Rate this question:
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- 27.
Which is known as the "Age of Reptiles"?
- A.
Precambrian
- B.
Paleozoic
- C.
Mesozoic
- D.
Cenozoic
Correct Answer
C. MesozoicExplanation
The Mesozoic era is known as the "Age of Reptiles" because it was a time when reptiles dominated the Earth. This era lasted from about 252 to 66 million years ago and saw the rise of iconic reptiles such as dinosaurs, pterosaurs, and marine reptiles. The Mesozoic era is characterized by the diversification and dominance of reptilian life forms, making it an appropriate nickname for this period in Earth's history.Rate this question:
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- 28.
What are the dates of the Paleozoic Era?
- A.
4.6 bya-570 mya
- B.
570-250 mya
- C.
250-65 mya
- D.
65mya-today
Correct Answer
B. 570-250 myaExplanation
The correct answer is 570-250 mya. The Paleozoic Era is a geologic era that lasted from about 541 to 252 million years ago. It is divided into several periods, including the Cambrian, Ordovician, Silurian, Devonian, Carboniferous, and Permian. The dates 570-250 mya fall within the Paleozoic Era, specifically the Late Cambrian to the Late Permian periods.Rate this question:
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- 29.
Which had the first birds, mammals, deciduous trees, and flowering plants?
- A.
Precambrian
- B.
Paleozoic
- C.
Mesozoic
- D.
Cenozoic
Correct Answer
C. MesozoicExplanation
The Mesozoic era is known as the "Age of Reptiles" and is characterized by the emergence and dominance of dinosaurs. However, it is also during this era that the first birds, mammals, deciduous trees, and flowering plants appeared. This era witnessed significant diversification and evolution of life forms, marking important milestones in the history of Earth's biodiversity.Rate this question:
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- 30.
Which had the first forests, spiders, and insects?
- A.
Precambrian
- B.
Paleozoic
- C.
Mesozoic
- D.
Cenozoic
Correct Answer
B. PaleozoicExplanation
The Paleozoic era is known for having the first forests, spiders, and insects. This era, which lasted from about 541 to 252 million years ago, marked the diversification and expansion of life on Earth. During this time, plants evolved to form the first forests, while arthropods such as spiders and insects also appeared. The Paleozoic era is often referred to as the "Age of Invertebrates" due to the abundance and diversity of these early forms of life.Rate this question:
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- 31.
Which had the super super continent of Pangea?
- A.
Precambrian
- B.
Paleozoic
- C.
Mesozoic
- D.
Cenozoic
Correct Answer
C. MesozoicExplanation
During the Mesozoic era, which lasted from about 252 to 66 million years ago, the supercontinent of Pangea existed. Pangea was a large landmass that included almost all of Earth's continents fused together. The breakup of Pangea began during the Mesozoic era, leading to the formation of the continents we know today. Therefore, the Mesozoic era is associated with the supercontinent Pangea.Rate this question:
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- 32.
Which time period first had an atmospere like we have today?
- A.
Precambrian
- B.
Paleozoic
- C.
Mesozoic
- D.
Cenozoic
Correct Answer
B. PaleozoicExplanation
During the Paleozoic era, which lasted from about 541 to 252 million years ago, the Earth's atmosphere began to resemble the one we have today. This period saw the development of complex life forms, including the first land plants and animals. It also marked the rise of oxygen levels in the atmosphere due to the photosynthetic activity of these early organisms. As a result, the Paleozoic era is often referred to as the time when the modern atmosphere began to take shape.Rate this question:
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- 33.
A very large, circular impact crater beyond the east coast of Mexico is believed to be approximately 65 million years old. This impact is inferred to be related to
- A.
Alien attack
- B.
Appearance of earliest trilobites
- C.
Advance and retreat of the last continental ice sheet
- D.
Formation of Pangaea
- E.
Extinction of the dinosaurs
Correct Answer
E. Extinction of the dinosaursExplanation
The correct answer is "Extinction of the dinosaurs." The explanation for this answer is that the impact crater mentioned in the question is believed to be approximately 65 million years old, which coincides with the time period when the dinosaurs went extinct. The impact is thought to have caused significant environmental changes, such as a decrease in sunlight and a global cooling effect, which ultimately led to the extinction of the dinosaurs and many other species.Rate this question:
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- 34.
What caused the atmosphere to change through geologic time?
- A.
The evolution of oxygen-producing organisms
- B.
The formation of the tectonic plates
- C.
The emergence of trilobites
- D.
The deposition of soil during sedimentary rock formation
- E.
Gravity
Correct Answer
A. The evolution of oxygen-producing organismsExplanation
The correct answer is the evolution of oxygen-producing organisms. Over geologic time, the atmosphere has changed due to the emergence and evolution of organisms that are capable of photosynthesis. These organisms, such as cyanobacteria and plants, release oxygen as a byproduct of their metabolic processes. This led to the gradual increase in oxygen levels in the atmosphere, which had a significant impact on the evolution of life on Earth. The presence of oxygen allowed for the development of more complex organisms and played a crucial role in shaping the composition of the atmosphere.Rate this question:
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- 35.
Which of the following refers to the most recent era of geologic time?
- A.
Paleozoic
- B.
Cenozoic
- C.
Jurassic
- D.
Precambrian
Correct Answer
B. CenozoicExplanation
The Cenozoic era refers to the most recent era of geologic time. It began around 66 million years ago and is still ongoing. This era is characterized by the diversification and dominance of mammals, as well as the rise of humans. The other options listed, Paleozoic, Jurassic, and Precambrian, refer to earlier eras in geologic time.Rate this question:
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Nov 16, 2023Quiz Edited by
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Sep 18, 2016Quiz Created by
Barbara Hart
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