When time is understood over a long period, the word was used. This is what happens to the Earth’s geological stages, known as geological ages . Geology is the science that establishes the Earth’s chronology and for this it is based on the interpretation of layers. This chronology divides time into epochs, periods, eras and phases. Let’s focus on the eras, it is possible to talk about four geological eras: Pre-Cambrian, Paleozoic, Mesozoic and Cenozoic. Mesozoic Era
During the two stages prior to the Mesozoic, the Earth was formed by a single continent (Pangea), so, after a cooling in the Earth’s crust, the seas began to form and the first unicellular living beings appeared, later the first reptiles, insects, fish and more primary amphibians.
Periods and particularity of the Mesozoic era
Geologists divide the Mesozoic or secondary era into three major periods: Triassic, Jurassic and Cretaceous. In relation to the most significant aspects, the most prominent are: Mesozoic Era
– The division of Pangea evolved into several continental forms and there were frequent volcanic eruptions;
– The Earth’s temperature stabilizes and this causes the emergence of new vegetation in a generalized way;
– There is great biological development in general and the first mammals and birds appear. The flora stands out for its exuberance and diversity;
– The most particular element of this era is the emergence, development and subsequent extinction of dinosaurs.
The Dinosaur Extinction Controversy
There is no definitive theory as to what was the reason for its extinction at the end of the Mesozoic era. In fact, two possible explanations are observed:
1) The impact of an asteroid on Earth that caused a generalized climate change and this had consequences for the basic food of the dinosaurs;
2) A phase of large volcanic eruptions that weakened the reproductive capacity of the dinosaurs.
In either hypothesis, dinosaurs have not adapted to new biological conditions. There are other explanations for this phenomenon, but with less recognition in the scientific community : venous plants that massively poisoned the dinosaurs, some hormonal change in their organism or the spread of a virus that wiped them out for good.
