Chapter 14, Problem 12A

Summary Introduction

To explain:

The geologic time scale using analogy other than a ribbon time.

Introduction:

Fossils are the evidences for the organisms that once existed on this planet. The fossils contain clues about the organism, like feces, bone, teeth, or wood. From fossils, scientists can determine the structure and lifestyle of that organism.

Explanation of Solution

The geologic time scale acts as a calendar for the events that occurred in the history of the Earth. It subdivides all time into descending order of duration, eons, epochs, ages, periods, and eras.

The geological time scale can also be described as a clock, where majority of duration is occupied by Precambrian period and only the last minute is occupied by the most recent era that is Cenozoic era.