Cretaceous Period

The Cretaceous Period is the third and final period of the Mesozoic Era, spanning from around 145 to 66 million years ago. It is known for being the last period of the Age of Dinosaurs before their extinction and the rise of many modern plant and animal groups. The Cretaceous is divided into two epochs: the Early Cretaceous and the Late Cretaceous.

Key Events and Features

• Continued breakup of the supercontinent Pangaea
• Rise of flowering plants (angiosperms) and the diversification of insects
• High sea levels and significant shallow seas
• Extensive chalk deposits in certain regions
• Mass extinction event marking the end of the Cretaceous Period

Study Guide

1. What are the two epochs of the Cretaceous Period?
2. What major plant group rose to prominence during the Cretaceous?
3. What were the significant geological features of the Cretaceous Period?
4. What marked the end of the Cretaceous Period?

Answers

1. The two epochs of the Cretaceous Period are the Early Cretaceous and the Late Cretaceous.
2. Flowering plants (angiosperms) rose to prominence during the Cretaceous.
3. Significant geological features of the Cretaceous Period included the breakup of Pangaea, high sea levels, and extensive chalk deposits.
4. The end of the Cretaceous Period was marked by a mass extinction event, including the extinction of the dinosaurs.

[Cretaceous] Related Worksheets and Study Guides:

• Geologic timeScience • Eighth Grade