Cretaceous Period

The Cretaceous Period is the third and final period of the Mesozoic Era, spanning from approximately 145 to 66 million years ago. It is known for the presence of dinosaurs, as well as major geological and biological changes.

Geology

During the Cretaceous Period, the supercontinent Pangaea continued to break apart, leading to the formation of the Atlantic Ocean. The climate was warm and the sea levels were high, resulting in extensive shallow seas and a variety of marine environments.

Life Forms

The Cretaceous Period saw the dominance of dinosaurs, including the well-known Tyrannosaurus rex and Triceratops. Other iconic creatures such as plesiosaurs and pterosaurs also thrived during this time. Additionally, flowering plants and modern groups of insects and mammals began to diversify.

Study Guide

1. Geological Changes: Describe the breakup of Pangaea and the formation of the Atlantic Ocean during the Cretaceous Period.
2. Dinosaur Diversity: Research and document the different types of dinosaurs that lived during the Cretaceous Period, including their physical characteristics and habitats.
3. Plant Evolution: Investigate the rise of flowering plants and their impact on the environment during the Cretaceous Period.
4. Mass Extinction: Explore the theories surrounding the mass extinction event at the end of the Cretaceous Period, which led to the extinction of the dinosaurs.

[Cretaceous] Related Worksheets and Study Guides:

• Geologic timeScience • Eighth Grade