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Multiple Choice
Which of the following statements is accurate with regard to the Cambrian Explosion?
A
It was a period marked by a rapid diversification of animal life forms in the fossil record.
B
It was characterized by the first appearance of land plants.
C
It was caused by the mass extinction of dinosaurs.
D
It occurred during the late Jurassic period.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the Cambrian Explosion: The Cambrian Explosion refers to a period approximately 541 million years ago during the Cambrian period, marked by a rapid diversification of animal life forms in the fossil record. This event is significant in evolutionary biology as it represents the emergence of most major animal phyla.
Eliminate incorrect options: The Cambrian Explosion is not related to the first appearance of land plants, as land plants appeared much later during the Silurian period. Similarly, it was not caused by the mass extinction of dinosaurs, which occurred much later during the Cretaceous-Paleogene extinction event.
Clarify the timeline: The Cambrian Explosion occurred during the Cambrian period, not the late Jurassic period. The Jurassic period is much later in Earth's history and is known for the dominance of dinosaurs.
Focus on the correct statement: The accurate description of the Cambrian Explosion is that it was a period marked by a rapid diversification of animal life forms in the fossil record. This includes the appearance of many complex organisms and the establishment of modern ecosystems.
Conclude the reasoning: Based on the elimination of incorrect options and understanding of the Cambrian Explosion, the correct answer is the statement that describes it as a period marked by a rapid diversification of animal life forms in the fossil record.