Cenozoic Era

The Cenozoic Era is the current and most recent of the three major subdivisions of geological time. It began about 66 million years ago and continues to the present day. This era is often referred to as the "Age of Mammals" because of the diversification and dominance of mammals during this time.

Key Events and Characteristics

• Climate Change: The Cenozoic era has been marked by significant climate change, including periods of cooling and warming.
• Evolution of Mammals: Mammals underwent a rapid diversification and expansion in various ecological niches during this era.
• Extinction Events: Several major extinction events occurred, including the Cretaceous-Paleogene extinction event that wiped out the non-avian dinosaurs.
• Geological Activity: The Earth's continents continued to shift, leading to the formation of modern-day landmasses and mountain ranges.
• Human Evolution: The Cenozoic era also saw the emergence and evolution of early primates, leading to the eventual appearance of modern humans.

Geological Periods of the Cenozoic Era

The Cenozoic Era is divided into three major periods:

1. Paleogene Period: This period began about 66 million years ago and lasted until about 23 million years ago. It includes the Paleocene, Eocene, and Oligocene epochs.
2. Neogene Period: Following the Paleogene period, the Neogene period began about 23 million years ago and continued until about 2.6 million years ago. It includes the Miocene and Pliocene epochs.
3. Quaternary Period: The Quaternary period began about 2.6 million years ago and extends to the present day. It includes the Pleistocene and Holocene epochs, during which human civilization emerged and flourished.

Study Tips

To help you prepare for your study of the Cenozoic era, consider the following tips:

1. Review the major events and characteristics of the Cenozoic era, including climate changes, mammal evolution, and geological activity.
2. Learn about the geological periods of the Cenozoic era and the key events that occurred during each period.
3. Explore the concept of human evolution and its significance in the context of the Cenozoic era.
4. Use visual aids such as timelines, maps, and diagrams to better understand the chronology and geography of the Cenozoic era.
5. Consider the impact of the Cenozoic era on the present-day environment and the species that inhabit the Earth today.

By familiarizing yourself with the key concepts and events of the Cenozoic era, you'll be well-prepared to engage with the material and deepen your understanding of this important geological period.