Earth's History

What does this diagram tell you about these different time periods? Choose all that apply.

• the actual length of time for each one

• the order in which they occurred

• the length of time they lasted in relation to each other

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS1-4

Which statements correctly describe the geologic time scale? Choose all that apply.

• it is divided into equal periods of time

• it is divided based on evidence in the fossil record

• some events are arranged according to relative dates

• it is divided based on evidence in the rock record

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS1-4

The rock layers in this photo were laid down horizontally and are undisturbed. Therefore, you can conclude that the white layer is older/younger than the red layer, and that the thick brown layer is the oldest/youngest of the layers shown.

• older/oldest

• older/youngest

• younger/oldest

• younger/youngest

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS1-4

An extremely thin layer of volcanic ash is found between the white layer on top and the thin red layer in the middle. Absolute dating showed that the ash is about 43 million years old. What can you conclude based on this information?

• The top layer is also volcanic.

• The middle layer is also about 43 million years old.

• The top layer is younger than 43 million years old.

• The bottom layer is older than 43 million years old.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS1-4

Scientists study current geologic processes to learn about past processes such as tectonic plate motion, weathering, erosion, and deposition. How is it possible to look at geologic processes that shape Earth today to learn about the past?

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NGSS.MS-ESS1-4

NGSS.MS-ESS2-2

NGSS.MS-ESS2-3

Scientists use the rock record and the fossil record as evidence for events and conditions in Earth's past. What can you infer from the rock record and the fossil record? Give two specific examples of evidence and how that evidence helps scientists organize geologic time.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS1-4

NGSS.MS-LS4-1

The geologic time scale is used to organize Earth's long history. Why do you think scientists need to organize Earth's history into a time scale?

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS1-4