12 Questions
What is an extinction event?
A widespread and rapid decrease in the biodiversity on Earth
How are the 'Big Five' extinction events labeled in the text?
Clickable links
Why are the two extinction events in the Cambrian period characterized as large in percentage magnitude but small in absolute numbers of known taxa?
Due to a lack of fossilization in that period
What defines a mass extinction event?
A sharp fall in biodiversity with an increased rate of extinction
How many major mass extinctions have occurred in the last 540 million years according to different estimates?
Between five and twenty
What does the blue graph shown in the text represent?
Percentage of marine animal genera becoming extinct during any given time interval
What did Jack Sepkoski and David M. Raup identify in their 1982 paper?
Five specific geological intervals with excessive diversity loss
What is significant about the Ordovician-Silurian extinction events?
They rank as the second-largest of the five major extinctions in Earth's history
What is suggested to be the trigger for reductions in atmospheric carbon dioxide leading to glaciation and anoxia?
Deposition of volcanic ash
What event is considered an extinction event that annihilated coral reefs and numerous tropical benthic animals during the Late Devonian period?
Kellwasser Event
Which geological period saw an extinction event speculated to precede all 'Big Five' mass extinctions?
Ediacaran period
What is highlighted as a potential cause of mass extinction during the Ordovician-Silurian events?
Global warming and volcanism
Test your knowledge on mass extinction events and their impact on marine life throughout Phanerozoic history. Explore the causes, effects, and patterns of marine extinction intensity over millions of years.
Make Your Own Quizzes and Flashcards
Convert your notes into interactive study material.
Get started for free
