CARBONIFEROUS Meaning and
Definition
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Carboniferous is an adjective that refers to a geologic period during the Paleozoic era, which lasted from about 359 to 299 million years ago. The term "carboniferous" is derived from the Latin words "carbo" meaning coal and "fero" meaning carry or bear. The name is indicative of the period's primary significance, as it was characterized by the formation and accumulation of extensive coal deposits.
During the Carboniferous period, vast swamps covered much of the Earth's landmasses, predominantly populated by early tree-like plants called lycopsids and ferns. As these plants grew, they absorbed carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and released oxygen, leading to an increase in atmospheric oxygen levels. The immense amount of plant material that accumulated in these swamps contributed to the formation of today's coal deposits.
Furthermore, the Carboniferous period witnessed the diversification and dominance of early amphibians as well as the emergence of the first reptiles, marking a significant transition from marine to terrestrial ecosystems. The period is also widely known for the presence of abundant marine life that included diverse coral reefs, jawed fishes, and mollusks.
The Carboniferous period played a vital role in shaping the Earth's geological and biological history. It is particularly noteworthy for its substantial coal reserves, which have significantly contributed to energy production and industrialization throughout human history. Studying this period helps scientists better understand the processes and changes that have occurred over millions of years, refining our knowledge of Earth's climate, ecosystems, and the evolution of life forms.
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Producing carbon or coal.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for CARBONIFEROUS
Etymology of CARBONIFEROUS
The word "carboniferous" is derived from the Latin word "carbo", meaning "coal", and the suffix "-ferous", meaning "bearing" or "producing". Therefore, the literal meaning of "carboniferous" is "coal-bearing" or "coal-producing". This term was first used in the late 18th century to refer to a geologic period known as the Carboniferous Period, which is characterized by the accumulation of vast coal deposits.
Idioms with the word CARBONIFEROUS
Similar spelling words for CARBONIFEROUS
- carbon paper,
- Carbonneau,
- carbon process,
- carbonaceous,
- carbonic acid,
- carbonization,
- carbonation,
- carbonized,
- carbondale,
- carbon arc,
- carbonyl group,
- carbonisation.
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