Which of these statements best illustrates the theory of catastrophism?
A) Only extinct species appear in the fossil record.
B) Only plant species have become extinct.
C) There are no humans in early fossil records because they had not been created yet.
D) Species become extinct due to natural disasters, such as floods and volcanic eruptions.
E) The fossil record is incomplete.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The theory of catastrophism posits that Earth has been affected in the past by sudden, short-lived, violent events, possibly worldwide in scope. This theory suggests that such catastrophic events, like floods and volcanic eruptions, are responsible for mass extinctions and the formation of all geological features.

Which of These Statements Best Illustrates the Theory of Catastrophism