Question

28 multiple choice
which of the following statements best defines an epoch?
a an epoch is when the big bang happened.
b an epoch is the largest unit of geologic time.
c an epoch preceded the formation of earth.
d an epoch is a division of time within a period.

Explanation:

• Option A: The Big Bang is a cosmological event, not what defines an epoch.
• Option B: The largest unit of geologic time is an eon, not an epoch.
• Option C: Epochs are part of Earth's geological time scale (after Earth's formation).
• Option D: In the geologic time scale, an epoch is a subdivision of a period.

Answer:

D. An epoch is a division of time within a period.