Mass Extinction

What is the definition of mass extinction?

• A gradual decline in species over millions of years

• The loss of a few species in a specific region

• A widespread and rapid decrease in the number of species on Earth

• The natural process of species evolving into new forms

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Mass extinctions are always caused by asteroid impacts.

• True - scientists believe an asteroid caused the extinction of the dinosaurs

• False - Mass extinctions can be caused by various factors, including volcanic activity, climate change, and ocean acidification

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Which of the following is an example of a mass extinction event?

• The extinction of the woolly mammoth due to overhunting

• The Permian-Triassic extinction, which wiped out about 90% of species

• The Ice Age, which led to the migration of many species

• The domestication of animals by humans

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The Earth is currently experiencing a mass extinction event.

• True - Many scientists believe we are in the sixth mass extinction due to human activities such as habitat destruction, pollution, and climate change

• False - Many scientists believe there were 5 mass extinction events. Due to modern technology, we should not experience any further extinction events

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NGSS.HS-LS2-7

How many major mass extinction events have occurred in Earth's history?

• 3

• 5

• 7

• 10

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NGSS.HS-ESS2-7

Which statement about mass extinctions is correct?

• A species must have every single individual die for it to count as a mass extinction.

• Mass extinctions only happen when all life on Earth is wiped out.

• Mass extinctions occur when 25% to 50% of all species disappear in a short period.

• Only dinosaurs have ever gone extinct in a mass extinction event.

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