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Questions and Answers
Approximately how long ago did the first simple, single-celled organisms appear on Earth?
Approximately how long ago did the first simple, single-celled organisms appear on Earth?
Around 3.5 billion years ago.
What was the significant atmospheric change caused by early life forms through processes like photosynthesis?
What was the significant atmospheric change caused by early life forms through processes like photosynthesis?
The production of oxygen.
What is the name of the period marked by a significant increase in the diversity of life, particularly marine life?
What is the name of the period marked by a significant increase in the diversity of life, particularly marine life?
The Cambrian Explosion.
Besides plants, what other major groups of organisms began to colonize land after the Cambrian explosion?
Besides plants, what other major groups of organisms began to colonize land after the Cambrian explosion?
What are some of the essential services provided by biodiversity that contribute to ecosystem health?
What are some of the essential services provided by biodiversity that contribute to ecosystem health?
Flashcards
Photosynthesis
Photosynthesis
The process by which some early life forms, like bacteria, created oxygen as a byproduct of their metabolism. This changed the Earth's atmosphere, allowing for the evolution of more complex life.
Cambrian Explosion
Cambrian Explosion
The explosion of diversity in life forms that occurred around 541 million years ago, marked by the rapid evolution and diversification of many marine animals.
Biodiversity
Biodiversity
The ability of different species to interact and thrive within their environment, creating a healthy ecosystem.
Evolution and Adaptation
Evolution and Adaptation
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Human Impact on Biodiversity
Human Impact on Biodiversity
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Study Notes
Early Life on Earth
- Life on Earth began with simple, single-celled organisms about 3.5 billion years ago.
- These early life forms, like bacteria and archaea, lived in various environments, such as oceans and hot springs.
- Some early organisms developed photosynthesis, producing oxygen, which changed the atmosphere and led to more complex life.
Multicellular Life and Evolution
- The Cambrian Explosion, around 541 million years ago, significantly increased life's diversity.
- This period saw many marine organisms like fish, mollusks, and arthropods emerge.
- Plants began colonizing land, leading to the evolution of amphibians and later reptiles, birds, and mammals.
Modern Biodiversity and Threats
- Today, Earth has a vast array of life, from microorganisms to large mammals.
- Biodiversity is essential for ecosystem health; it provides crucial ecosystem services.
- Human activities (habitat loss, pollution, and climate change) are harming these ecosystems and threatening many species.
Summary of Earth's Life History
- The history of life on Earth is a process of evolution, adaptation, and environmental interaction.
- Past and present life forms are interconnected, and understanding this connection is essential for conservation and sustainability.
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