The rise of first primates occurred in____ epoch.

Options

A. Palaeocene
B. Oligocene
C. Miocene
D. Eocene.

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding the Question**: The question asks about the epoch during which the first primates arose. We need to identify the correct epoch from the options provided.

2. **Defining Epoch**: An epoch is a significant period in geological time. It is a subdivision of a geological period and is used to describe a specific timeframe in Earth's history.

3. **Identifying Primates**: Primates are a group of mammals that include humans, apes, monkeys, and prosimians. Understanding when they first appeared in the evolutionary timeline is crucial.

4. **Reviewing Geological Time Scale**: The geological time scale is divided into eons, eras, periods, epochs, and ages. The Cenozoic Era is the most recent era and is divided into several epochs, including the Paleocene, Eocene, Oligocene, Miocene, Pliocene, and Pleistocene.

5. **Locating the Paleocene Epoch**: The Paleocene epoch is the first epoch of the Cenozoic Era, occurring approximately 66 to 56 million years ago. It is known for the emergence of mammals after the extinction of the dinosaurs.

6. **Confirming the Rise of Primates**: The first primates are believed to have appeared during the Paleocene epoch. This epoch marks the beginning of the evolution of mammals, including the early ancestors of primates.

7. **Choosing the Correct Option**: Based on the information gathered, the correct answer to the question is the Paleocene epoch.

**Final Answer**: The rise of the first primates occurred in the **Paleocene epoch**.

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