ASBOG Practice Exam

The Cenozoic era is divided into which two periods?

1. Tertiary and Quaternary

2. Mesozoic and Paleozoic

3. Paleogene and Neogene

4. Silurian and Devonian

The correct answer is: Tertiary and Quaternary

The Cenozoic era is indeed divided into two principal periods known as the Paleogene and Neogene. Recognizing this division aids in understanding the evolution of mammals, birds, and flowering plants which predominantly occurred during this era. The Tertiary, once used as a term to encompass the time from the beginning of the Cenozoic era up to the start of the Quaternary period, has largely fallen out of favor in most geological contexts. Current geological nomenclature prefers to use the terms Paleogene and Neogene to provide a clearer framework of Earth's history during the Cenozoic era. This shift reflects a more precise understanding of the significant geological, climatic, and biological developments during those time frames. The other options, such as Mesozoic and Paleozoic, correspond to earlier eras in geological history, while Silurian and Devonian pertain to specific periods within the Paleozoic era. These earlier divisions do not apply to the Cenozoic and thus do not answer the question accurately. Therefore, focusing on the established terms Paleogene and Neogene allows for a more accurate context of the Cenozoic era's significant events.