Overview
Mass extinctions are pivotal events in Earth's history that lead to the rapid loss of a significant number of species. They can be caused by various factors, including asteroid impacts, volcanic eruptions, and climate changes. The end-Cretaceous extinction, which famously eliminated the dinosaurs, s...
Key Terms
Example: The end-Cretaceous mass extinction led to the extinction of the dinosaurs.
Example: Coral reefs are known for their high biodiversity.
Example: The fossil record shows how species have changed over time.
Example: The asteroid impact at the end of the Cretaceous is believed to have caused the extinction of the dinosaurs.
Example: The Permian-Triassic extinction is thought to be linked to massive volcanic eruptions.
Example: After the dinosaurs went extinct, mammals underwent adaptive radiation.