upper carboniferous period
Definition
Proper noun A specific geologic time unit, the later subdivision of the Carboniferous Period, characterized by a warm global climate and the widespread presence of swampy, low-lying land environments. This period is significant for the formation of extensive coal deposits from the dense vegetation in these swamps.
Usage
This term is used exclusively in scientific contexts, specifically in geology, paleontology, and earth history. It refers to a defined chronological unit in the geologic timescale. * Geologists study rock formations from the Upper Carboniferous Period to understand ancient climates. * Many coal seams were formed during the Upper Carboniferous Period.
Advanced Usage
- In formal stratigraphy: The term is often synonymous with the Pennsylvanian subsystem/epoch, particularly in the North American geologic timescale.
- The coal-bearing strata are assigned to the Upper Carboniferous Period, or the Pennsylvanian.
Variants and Related Words
- Pennsylvanian (n.): The equivalent geologic period in the North American timescale.
- Carboniferous (n., adj.): The broader geologic period containing both the Mississippian (Lower Carboniferous) and Pennsylvanian (Upper Carboniferous) epochs.
- Late Carboniferous (adj.): An informal synonym describing the same time interval.
Synonyms
- Pennsylvanian
- Late Carboniferous Epoch
Noun
-
from 310 million to 280 million years ago; warm climate; swampy land
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