Science Olympiad Dynamic Planet Practice Test

When did the supercontinent Ur break apart?

1. 1.8 billion years ago

2. 3 billion years ago

3. 600 million years ago

4. 2.5 billion years ago

The correct answer is: 3 billion years ago

The correct time for the breakup of the supercontinent Ur is 1.8 billion years ago, which indicates that it occurred during the Paleo-Mesoproterozoic era. Ur is recognized as one of the earliest supercontinents, and its breakup is significant in the geological history of Earth, marking a major period of continental development and the subsequent formation of new landmasses. During this time, the tectonic processes began to facilitate the movement of landmasses, leading to the assembly and breakup of various supercontinents throughout Earth's history. The other options, while representing significant periods in geological history, do not coincide with the breakup of Ur. For example, 2.5 billion years ago is associated with the formation of the first stable continental crust, while breakup events of other supercontinents occurred much later in geologic time, such as Rodinia around 600 million years ago.