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What is the correct order of eras from oldest to youngest?

  1. Cenozoic; Mesozoic; Paleozoic

  2. Paleozoic; Cenozoic; Mesozoic

  3. Paleozoic; Mesozoic; Cenozoic

  4. Mesozoic; Paleozoic; Cenozoic

The correct answer is: Paleozoic; Mesozoic; Cenozoic

The correct order of geological eras from oldest to youngest is Paleozoic, Mesozoic, and then Cenozoic. The Paleozoic Era is significant as it marks the emergence of early life forms, including fish and amphibians, and spans from about 541 to 252 million years ago. Following this, the Mesozoic Era, known as the age of reptiles, including dinosaurs, extends from approximately 252 to 66 million years ago. Finally, the Cenozoic Era, which began around 66 million years ago and continues to the present day, is characterized by the rise of mammals and birds and significant climatic changes. This sequence reflects the actual progression of Earth's history and the development of life forms over time, confirming the correct order as Paleozoic first, Mesozoic second, and Cenozoic last. Understanding this order is essential for grasping the broader context of geological time scales and the evolution of life through various significant events in Earth's history.