Catastrophism v. Gradualism

Front

What is Catastrophism?

Back

A principle that states geologic change occurs suddenly due to short, violent events.

Front

What does Gradualism refer to?

Back

The theory that changes in the Earth occur slowly over long periods of time.

Front

What is a mass extinction?

Back

The dying out of many species on Earth within a short period of time.

Tags

NGSS.HS-LS4-5

Front

What are some causes of mass extinctions?

Back

Global warming, global cooling, and asteroids striking the Earth.

Tags

NGSS.HS-ESS3-5

NGSS.HS-LS4-2

NGSS.HS-LS4-5

Front

What does the Law of Superposition state?

Back

In undisturbed layers of rock, the oldest layers are at the bottom and the youngest are at the top.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS1-4

Front

How does Catastrophism differ from Gradualism?

Back

Catastrophism involves sudden changes, while Gradualism involves slow, continuous changes.

Front

What is an example of a catastrophic event?

Back

An asteroid impact that leads to mass extinction.

Tags

NGSS.HS-LS4-5

Front

What is Uniformitarianism?

Back

The principle that the same geological processes that operate today also operated in the past.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-1

Front

What role do natural disasters play in Catastrophism?

Back

Natural disasters can cause rapid and significant changes to the Earth's surface.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-2

NGSS.MS-ESS3-2

Front

Can you give an example of Gradualism in nature?

Back

The slow erosion of mountains over millions of years.

Tags

NGSS.HS-ESS2-5