Question

The 'Sixth Extinction' of species, presently in progress, is ____ times faster than the previous five episodes of mass extinctions.

• A. 1000 to 10000
• B. 1 to 10
• C. 10 to 100
• D. 100 to 1000

Hint:

The Sixth Extinction's speed (100-1000 times faster) is linked to human-induced factors, outpacing natural extinction events.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

• Definition of Sixth Extinction: The current mass extinction, driven by human activities, is considered significantly faster than the five previous mass extinctions (e.g., Permian, Cretaceous).
• Scientific Evidence: Studies suggest the current extinction rate is 100 to 1000 times higher than the background rate observed in the fossil record, due to habitat loss, climate change, and pollution.
• Option Analysis:
  • (1) 1000 to 10000: This is an overestimate based on current data. This is incorrect.
  • (2) 1 to 10: This is too low, as the rate exceeds background levels significantly. This is incorrect.
  • (3) 10 to 100: This underestimates the severity compared to scientific estimates. This is incorrect.
  • (4) 100 to 1000: Aligns with estimates from conservation biology (e.g., IUCN reports). This is correct.
• Conclusion: The correct answer is (4) 100 to 1000, reflecting the accelerated extinction rate today.