Question

Classify the statements based on whether they describe characteristics of background extinctions or mass extinctions. Background extinction Mass extinction Answer Bank a sharp reduction in the biodiversity of Earth within a short period of geological time the extinction with a significantly lower rate of species loss the extinction rate used as an estimate of the number of species expected to become extinct each year the extinctions known as the Big Five the result of normal evolutionary processes a departure from the normally occurring extinction rate the extinction rate used as a base of reference

Answer 1

Background extinctions represent normal extinction rates over time, while mass extinctions involve sudden and drastic reductions in biodiversity.

Step-by-step explanation:

Background extinctions is a term used to describe the normal extinction rate that occurs over geological time due to natural evolutionary processes. It represents a gradual decrease in biodiversity within a specific period of time.

On the other hand, mass extinctions refer to sharp reductions in biodiversity that happen within a relatively short period of geological time, typically involving the loss of more than half of all species. They are characterized by sudden and dramatic losses in biodiversity, as seen in the fossil record.

Answer 2

Background extinctions are characterized by lower rates of species loss, being the estimate of yearly expected extinctions, the result of normal processes, and acting as a base reference. Mass extinctions involve sharp biodiversity declines, are a departure from normal rates, and include the Big Five events.

Step-by-step explanation:

The classification of the statements into characteristics of background extinctions or mass extinctions are as follows:

• Background Extinction:
• the extinction with a significantly lower rate of species loss
• the extinction rate used as an estimate of the number of species expected to become extinct each year
• the result of normal evolutionary processes
• the extinction rate used as a base of reference
• Mass Extinction:
• a sharp reduction in the biodiversity of Earth within a short period of geological time
• a departure from the normally occurring extinction rate
• the extinctions known as the Big Five