The geological history of Earth is not only divided into eras but also into larger units

called eons, each representing a vast expanse of time and marked by distinctive
geological and biological events. Let's delve into the eons of Earth's history.
Proterozoic Eon: The Proterozoic Eon covers the time-period from around 2.5
billion years ago to 541 million years ago. Notable events during this eon include the
oxygenation of the atmosphere, the formation of more complex multicellular life
forms, and the Snowball Earth episodes, where the planet experienced extreme
glaciations.
Hadean Eon: The Hadean Eon is the earliest and longest eon, spanning from the
formation of the Earth about 4.6 billion years ago to roughly 4 billion years ago. This
eon is named after Hades, the ancient Greek god of the underworld, reflecting the
extreme conditions on early Earth, including intense heat and volcanic activity.
Phanerozoic Eon: The Phanerozoic Eon is the most recent eon, starting around
541 million years ago and continuing to the present day. It is divided into three eras:
the Paleozoic, Mesozoic, and Cenozoic. The Phanerozoic Eon is marked by the
proliferation of complex life forms, including the rise of animals with hard shells, the
evolution of vertebrates, and the dominance of mammals and birds.
Archean Eon: Following the Hadean Eon, the Archean Eon extends from about 4
billion years ago to 2.5 billion years ago. During this time, the Earth's surface
gradually cooled, and the first continents began to form. The emergence of life is
believed to have occurred during the latter part of the Archean, with the development
of simple single-celled organisms.
Understanding the eons provides a broader perspective on the immense timescales
over which Earth has evolved. It's a journey through billions of years, from the fiery
beginnings of the Hadean to the diverse and dynamic ecosystems of the present day
in the Phanerozoic. Each eon has left its imprint on the planet, shaping the geological
and biological landscapes that we observe today.