A New, Sixth Global Mass-Extinction Event Appears to Be Occurring

question 72

Multiple Choice

A new, sixth global mass-extinction event appears to be occurring on Earth today. The most likely explanation for the dramatic loss of species is

• A) global warming.
• B) natural fluctuations in global temperatures and precipitation.
• C) the evolution of new types of viruses.
• D) human activity that alters natural environments.
• E) decreases in atmospheric levels of oxygen.

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Definitions:

Newly Adopted Rules

Regulations or directives that have been recently implemented by an authoritative body.

Informal Rulemaking

A process used by government agencies to create regulations, where there is typically notice to the public and the opportunity for comments, but without a formal hearing.

Substantial Evidence

An adequate amount of relevant information or facts that a reasonable mind might accept as sufficient to support a conclusion.

Chief Administrator

The highest-ranking official in charge of managing and supervising the operations of a particular organization or governmental body.