Question:medium

Match List I with List II with respect to chronology of evolution of life forms :

List I             List II
A. About 65 mya    I. Jawless fish probably evolved
B. About 500 mya   II. The dinosaurs suddenly disappeared from the earth
C. About 350 mya   III. Seaweeds and few plants probably existed
D. About 320 mya   IV. Invertebrates were formed and became active

Choose the correct answer from the options given below :

Show Hint

Logic Tip: The extinction of dinosaurs at 65 mya is one of the most famous dates in evolutionary history. Knowing A matches to II immediately eliminates options 2 and 3!
Updated On: May 28, 2026
  • A-II, B-IV, C-I, D-III
  • A-I, B-II, C-III, D-IV
  • A-III, B-IV, C-I, D-II
  • A-II, B-IV, C-III, D-I
Show Solution

The Correct Option is A

Solution and Explanation

Step 1 : Understanding the Question:
The question asks us to match key evolutionary events in the history of life on Earth with their approximate timing in millions of years ago (mya). This requires knowledge of the geological time scale and major biological transitions.
Step 2 : Key Formulas and Approach:
Follow the chronological order of evolution:
Early ocean life (Invertebrates) $\rightarrow$ Early fish (Jawless) $\rightarrow$ Early plants (Seaweeds) $\rightarrow$ Extinction of giant reptiles (Dinosaurs).
Step 3 : Detailed Explanation:

Event at 65 mya (A): This date marks the end of the Cretaceous period. It is famous for the K-Pg mass extinction, where dinosaurs suddenly disappeared from the earth. Thus, A matches with II.

Event at 500 mya (B): During the early Paleozoic era, life diversified rapidly in the oceans. It is estimated that major invertebrates were formed and became active during this period. Thus, B matches with IV.

Event at 350 mya (C): Following the rise of invertebrates, the first vertebrates appeared. Jawless fish probably evolved around this time. Thus, C matches with I.

Event at 320 mya (D): As life moved towards land and diversified in the sea, seaweeds and few plants probably existed in their developed forms. Thus, D matches with III.

Step 4 : Final Answer:
Combining these historical facts, the correct match is A-II, B-IV, C-I, and D-III. This matches the arrangement in option (A).
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