Fossils and Geological Time Flashcard

Front

What era do we currently live in?

Back

Cenozoic

Front

Which planet has the longest orbital period around the Sun?

Back

Neptune

Front

What are the main ways stars differ from each other?

Back

Size, temperature, and age.

Front

What is the geology of the Moon primarily characterized by?

Back

Light colored minerals that crystallized from a magma ocean and dark colored basalts that erupted from magma.

Front

How would you describe the weather conditions on the Moon?

Back

Nonexistent.

Front

What is the significance of the Cenozoic era in geological time?

Back

It is the current geological era, characterized by the dominance of mammals and birds.

Front

What are fossils and how are they formed?

Back

Fossils are preserved remains or traces of ancient organisms, formed through processes like mineralization.

Front

What is the difference between relative dating and absolute dating in geology?

Back

Relative dating determines the sequence of events, while absolute dating provides a specific age.

Front

What is the principle of superposition in geology?

Back

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

Front

What are index fossils and why are they important?

Back

Index fossils are fossils of organisms that were widespread but existed for a short period, used to date rock layers.