The Cambrian Period

The Cambrian Period, which occurred approximately 541 million years ago, marks an important time in Earth's history. It is often referred to as the "Cambrian Explosion" due to the rapid diversification of life forms that occurred during this time.

Key Concepts to Understand

1. Geological Time Scale: The Cambrian Period is part of the Paleozoic Era, which is further divided into the Cambrian, Ordovician, Silurian, Devonian, Carboniferous, and Permian periods.
2. Diversification of Life: The Cambrian Explosion saw a significant increase in the diversity of organisms, including the emergence of many major animal groups known as phyla.
3. Fossil Record: Fossils from the Cambrian Period provide valuable insights into early animal life and the transition from simple to more complex organisms.
4. Environmental Changes: Shifts in ocean chemistry, temperature, and oxygen levels likely played a role in driving the evolution of new species during the Cambrian Period.

Study Guide

Here are some key points and questions to help you understand the Cambrian Period better:

1. Geological Time Scale

What is the significance of the Cambrian Period in the overall geological time scale?

2. Diversification of Life

Which major animal groups emerged during the Cambrian Explosion, and what are some of their defining characteristics?

3. Fossil Record

What can the fossils from the Cambrian Period tell us about the early evolution of animals?

4. Environmental Changes

How might environmental factors have influenced the diversification of life during the Cambrian Period?

By exploring these concepts and questions, you will gain a deeper understanding of the Cambrian Period and its importance in the history of life on Earth.

[Cambrian] Related Worksheets and Study Guides:

• Geologic timeScience • Eighth Grade