Quaternary
/kwəˈtɜrnˌɛr.i/noun
The most recent geological period, beginning about 2.6 million years ago and continuing to the present.
The Pleistocene and Holocene epochs are part of the quaternary period.
Usage tips
Neutral
quaternary rocks, quaternary climate, quaternary period, quaternary structure
Definition 1 of 2
Pro Tip 1/3Contextual Usage
In geological discussions, 'quaternary' refers specifically to recent ages of Earth’s history.
During the last glacial maximum, many species adapted to the harsh conditions of the quaternary period.
Pro Tip 2/3Scientific Preciseness
In scientific and academic texts, the term is used to specify things that are fourth in order.
When discussing phases of development, remember that quaternary signifies the fourth stage, differentiating it from primary, secondary, and tertiary stages.
Pro Tip 3/3Interdisciplinary Relevance
The term has applicability in different fields like chemistry, geology, and mathematics.
In mathematical contexts, it is crucial to grasp how quaternary expressions differ from binary and tertiary ones.
Compare with
primarytertiarybicarbonatetriadpentavalent
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