Evolution of Life
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Origins of Life
Origins of Life
1. Formation of Earth and Initial Conditions
The Earth formed around 4.5 billion years ago, setting the stage for life. Early conditions included volcanic activity and a primordial atmosphere.
Origins of Life
2. First Life Forms and Prokaryotes
The earliest evidence of life, dated at 3.5 billion years ago, shows simple prokaryotic organisms, marking life’s humble beginnings.
Origins of Life
3. Stromatolites and Photosynthetic Activity
Stromatolites, fossilized microbial mats, indicate early photosynthesis, demonstrating life’s ability to harness energy from sunlight.
Origins of Life
4. Abiogenesis and Chemical Origins
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Origins of Life
5. Endosymbiotic Theory
Endosymbiosis explains eukaryotic cell formation from symbiotic relationships among multiple prokaryotic cells, a key evolutionary leap.
Major Evolutionary Milestones
Major Evolutionary Milestones
6. Cambrian Explosion and Diversification
Approximately 541 million years ago, the Cambrian Explosion led to rapid life diversification, introducing most major animal phyla.
Major Evolutionary Milestones
7. Colonization of Land by Life
Around 500 million years ago, life extended to land with plants and fungi adapting, followed by animals such as early amphibians.
Major Evolutionary Milestones
8. Rise of Dinosaurs and Mammals
Dinosaurs ruled the Mesozoic era, while small mammals coexisted with them, later diversifying after the Cretaceous extinction event.
Natural Selection and Extinction
Natural Selection and Extinction
9. Natural Selection and Extinction Events
Darwin's natural selection theory details survival advantages. Earth’s five major mass extinctions reshaped life significantly.
Natural Selection and Extinction
10. Fossils and Genetic Evidence of Evolution
Fossils and genetic data offer insights into evolution, displaying chronological and relational development over millions of years.