The K-Pg Extinction Was Likely the Result of a Catastrophic

question 32

Multiple Choice

The K-Pg extinction was likely the result of a catastrophic asteroid impact that resulted in an extinction that happened over a very short geological time period. How could the K-Pg impact cause the collapse of the global food chain that led to this mass extinction?

• A) Flash fires resulting from the impact spread globally, putting significant amounts of smoke and particulate matter in the atmosphere, which reduced photosynthesis.
• B) The particulate matter ejected from the impact created a significant amount of sedimentation that disrupted plankton production.
• C) The impact created giant tsunamis that eliminated a vast amount of plant life as the waves impacted the continents.
• D) Huge amounts of particulate matter were discharged into the atmosphere as a result of the impact, blocking sunlight and causing photosynthesis to plummet.

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Definitions:

Cerebellum

A part of the brain located at the back of the skull, vital for coordinating movement and maintaining balance.

Reticular Formation

A network of neurons located in the brainstem, involved in various functions including regulation of wakefulness and sleep.

Midbrain

A central part of the brainstem that plays an important role in vision, hearing, motor control, sleep/wake, arousal, and temperature regulation.

Medulla

The base of the brainstem; it controls vital life-sustaining functions like heartbeat, breathing, blood pressure, and digestion.