What Do You Know About Geologic Time Scale? Trivia Quiz
What do you know about the geologic time scale? There are different time scales designed to help people understand different eras and a geologist is expected to understand what existed in these different eras, do you? Worry not as the trivia quiz below is perfect for testing out just how skilled you are when it comes to an understanding these time scales. Give it a shot and keep a lookout for more quizzes like it!
Questions and Answers
- 1.
What is the basic cause of extinction of species over time?
- A.
Human interference
- B.
Climate change
- C.
Animals destroy each other
Correct Answer
B. Climate changeExplanation
Climate change is the basic cause of extinction of species over time. Climate change refers to long-term shifts in temperature, precipitation, and other weather patterns, which can disrupt ecosystems and impact the survival and reproduction of species. As the climate changes, it can alter habitats, reduce food availability, and increase the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events, all of which can lead to the decline and eventual extinction of species. Human activities, such as the burning of fossil fuels and deforestation, contribute to climate change, making it a major threat to biodiversity.Rate this question:
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- 2.
According the paleontologists, which era of time is the oldest?
- A.
Palozoic Era
- B.
Precambrian Era
- C.
Cenozoic Era
Correct Answer
B. Precambrian EraExplanation
The Precambrian Era is considered the oldest era of time according to paleontologists. This era spans from the formation of the Earth, about 4.6 billion years ago, to the beginning of the Cambrian Period, around 541 million years ago. It is a vast period where the Earth underwent significant geological and biological changes, but there is limited fossil evidence from this time. The Precambrian Era is crucial in understanding the early development of the Earth and the emergence of life forms.Rate this question:
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- 3.
The appearance of the most complex and the greatest diversity of organisms occurred during______
- A.
Precambrian Era
- B.
Paleozoic Era
- C.
Mesozoic Era
Correct Answer
B. Paleozoic EraExplanation
The Paleozoic Era is known as the era of ancient life, lasting from about 541 to 252 million years ago. It is characterized by the appearance of a wide variety of complex organisms, including fish, plants, insects, and reptiles. This era saw the development of complex ecosystems and the evolution of many major groups of organisms. The diversity and complexity of life during the Paleozoic Era surpassed that of previous eras, making it the period when the most complex and diverse organisms appeared.Rate this question:
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- 4.
The dominant life form during the Mesozoic Era was_____
- A.
Insects
- B.
Humans
- C.
Reptiles
Correct Answer
C. ReptilesExplanation
During the Mesozoic Era, which lasted from about 252 million to 66 million years ago, reptiles were the dominant life form. This era is often referred to as the "Age of Reptiles" because reptiles, such as dinosaurs, crocodiles, and turtles, were the most abundant and diverse group of organisms during this time. They occupied various ecological niches and thrived in different habitats, making them the dominant life form of the era.Rate this question:
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- 5.
Which of the following is not a valid experiment to test?
- A.
Does changing the height of the ramp affect the speed of the car going down the ramp?
- B.
How does a paper airplane fly?
- C.
Does changing the amount of light affect the growth of a plant?
Correct Answer
B. How does a paper airplane fly?Explanation
The question asks for a valid experiment, and "How does a paper airplane fly?" does not meet the criteria. The other two options propose clear cause-and-effect relationships that can be tested through experimentation. However, "How does a paper airplane fly?" is more of an inquiry or investigation rather than an experiment that can be tested and measured.Rate this question:
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- 6.
Which is a quantitative observation?
- A.
Some of the dinosaurs went extinct due to climate change
- B.
None of the dinosaurs lived in the Holocene Epoch
- C.
Many of the dinosaurs died when a meteor hit the earth
Correct Answer
B. None of the dinosaurs lived in the Holocene EpochExplanation
The statement "None of the dinosaurs lived in the Holocene Epoch" is a quantitative observation because it provides a specific and measurable fact about dinosaurs. It states that no dinosaurs lived during a particular time period, the Holocene Epoch. This can be verified and quantified by studying the fossil record and geological data.Rate this question:
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- 7.
Which of the following best explains why the beak shape of each species of bird develops differently?
- A.
Each beak shape helps the birds to produce different songs
- B.
Each beak shape is an adaptation to a specific source of food
- C.
Each beak shape help protect the birds from each other
Correct Answer
B. Each beak shape is an adaptation to a specific source of foodExplanation
Each species of bird develops a different beak shape as an adaptation to a specific source of food. The beak shape is specialized to efficiently gather or capture the specific type of food that the bird consumes. For example, a long, thin beak is adapted for probing into flowers to extract nectar, while a short, stout beak is adapted for cracking seeds. This adaptation allows the bird to effectively obtain the necessary nutrients from its specific food source, increasing its chances of survival and reproductive success.Rate this question:
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- 8.
Five hundred flies of one species were sprayed with a new insecticide. Twenty-four hours later, nearly all the flies were dead. However, a few survived. Which principle best explains why some flies survived?
- A.
New species develop from survivors
- B.
Animals adapt to new environments
- C.
They were lucky
Correct Answer
B. Animals adapt to new environmentsExplanation
The principle that best explains why some flies survived is that animals adapt to new environments. This means that some flies may have had genetic variations or traits that allowed them to tolerate or resist the effects of the new insecticide. These flies were able to survive and pass on their advantageous traits to future generations.Rate this question:
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- 9.
What is the process by which better-suited organisms survive and reproduce?
- A.
Extinction
- B.
Adaptation
- C.
Organic reproduction
Correct Answer
B. AdaptationExplanation
Adaptation is the process by which better-suited organisms survive and reproduce. This refers to the ability of organisms to adjust to their environment in order to increase their chances of survival and reproduction. Through adaptation, organisms develop certain traits or behaviors that make them better suited to their specific environment, allowing them to compete more effectively for resources and successfully reproduce. This process is essential for the long-term survival and evolution of a species.Rate this question:
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- 10.
Many populations of moth species use camouflage to avoid predators in order to survive and reproduce. What do you expect will happen to light colored moths landing on dark colored trees?
- A.
Birds will see them and not eat the moths
- B.
Birds will see them and eat the light colored moths
- C.
Birds will leave them alone
Correct Answer
B. Birds will see them and eat the light colored mothsExplanation
Light colored moths landing on dark colored trees will be easily visible to birds due to the contrast in colors. This makes them more vulnerable to predation as birds will be able to spot and eat them. Therefore, the correct answer is that birds will see them and eat the light colored moths.Rate this question:
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- 11.
What biological adaptation does a polar bear have to help him/her survive in their environment?
- A.
Swim
- B.
Camouflage
- C.
Eat meat
Correct Answer
B. CamouflageExplanation
Polar bears have a biological adaptation of camouflage to help them survive in their environment. Their white fur allows them to blend in with the snow and ice, making it easier for them to hunt and sneak up on their prey. This adaptation helps them to remain hidden from both their prey and potential predators, increasing their chances of survival in their harsh Arctic habitat.Rate this question:
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- 12.
A black lab, rottweiler, basset hound, and poodle show different_________ of the same creature.
- A.
Kingdoms
- B.
Variations
- C.
Communities
Correct Answer
B. VariationsExplanation
The different breeds of dogs mentioned in the question represent variations of the same creature. Each breed has distinct characteristics, appearance, and temperament, showcasing the diversity and range within the dog species.Rate this question:
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- 13.
If a picture has Homo sapiens present, what era would be represented?
- A.
Mesozoic
- B.
Cenozoic
- C.
Creataceous
Correct Answer
B. CenozoicExplanation
The correct answer is Cenozoic because Homo sapiens, which refers to modern humans, first appeared during this era. The Cenozoic era began approximately 66 million years ago and is also known as the "Age of Mammals." It is characterized by the diversification and dominance of mammals, including the evolution and spread of humans. The Mesozoic era, on the other hand, ended with the extinction of dinosaurs, while the Cretaceous period is a specific time within the Mesozoic era and is not directly associated with the presence of Homo sapiens.Rate this question:
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- 14.
Put the following units of time in order from the longest to shorted.
- A.
Periods, eras, epochs, eons
- B.
Eras, eons, epoch, periods
- C.
Eons, eras, periods, epochs
Correct Answer
C. Eons, eras, periods, epochsExplanation
The correct order of the units of time from longest to shortest is eons, eras, periods, epochs. Eons represent the longest periods of time, followed by eras, which are shorter than eons but longer than periods. Periods come next, representing shorter intervals of time, and finally, epochs are the shortest units of time in this sequence.Rate this question:
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- 15.
What events separates each era of geologic time?
- A.
Mass extinctions of life
- B.
They all blend together and there is no separation of time
- C.
Earth reverses its revolution time
Correct Answer
A. Mass extinctions of lifeExplanation
Mass extinctions of life separate each era of geologic time. These cataclysmic events result in the widespread extinction of numerous species, causing a significant shift in the Earth's biodiversity. The occurrence of mass extinctions marks the end of one era and the beginning of another, as new species evolve and dominate the planet. These events create distinct boundaries in the geological record, allowing scientists to categorize and study different eras based on the fossil evidence left behind.Rate this question:
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- 16.
Which of the following is not a cause for natural extinctions on earth?
- A.
Volcanic extinctions
- B.
Man destroying natural habitats
- C.
Meteorite impacts
Correct Answer
B. Man destroying natural habitatsExplanation
Man destroying natural habitats is not a cause for natural extinctions on earth because natural extinctions refer to the extinction of species that occurs as a result of natural processes and not due to human activities. While human activities can certainly lead to extinctions, they are considered anthropogenic extinctions rather than natural extinctions. Natural extinctions are primarily caused by factors such as volcanic extinctions and meteorite impacts, which are independent of human influence.Rate this question:
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- 17.
What is an organisms ability to change over time?
- A.
Natural selection
- B.
Seismology
- C.
Reproduction
Correct Answer
A. Natural selectionExplanation
Natural selection is the process by which organisms with advantageous traits are more likely to survive and reproduce, while those with less advantageous traits are less likely to pass on their genes to the next generation. This leads to a gradual change in the characteristics of a population over time, as individuals with traits that are beneficial in their environment have a higher chance of survival and passing on their genes. Therefore, natural selection is the mechanism that allows organisms to adapt and change over time.Rate this question:
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Current Version
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Oct 03, 2023Quiz Edited by
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Dec 04, 2010Quiz Created by
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