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Multiple Choice
What is the Cambrian Explosion?
A
A mass extinction event that wiped out the dinosaurs at the end of the Cretaceous period.
B
The process by which eukaryotic cells first evolved from prokaryotic ancestors.
C
A period approximately 541 million years ago when most major animal phyla appeared in the fossil record over a relatively short time.
D
A volcanic eruption that caused widespread climate change during the Permian period.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Understand the term 'Cambrian Explosion' as it refers to a significant event in Earth's history. It is not related to extinction events, volcanic eruptions, or the evolution of eukaryotic cells.
Step 2: Recognize that the Cambrian Explosion occurred approximately 541 million years ago and is characterized by the rapid appearance of most major animal phyla in the fossil record.
Step 3: Note that this event marks a period of evolutionary innovation, where complex multicellular organisms diversified significantly in a relatively short geological timeframe.
Step 4: Clarify that the Cambrian Explosion is often studied through fossil evidence, such as those found in the Burgess Shale, which provide insights into the diversity of life forms during this period.
Step 5: Conclude that the Cambrian Explosion is a pivotal moment in the history of life on Earth, representing a dramatic increase in biodiversity and complexity among organisms.