The Cretaceous period began at the end of the Jurassic around 144 million years ago and extended longer than any other period (79 mya) to around 65 million years ago.
By the end of the period, the continents were much closer to the modern configuration.
However, this period gives us some of the most beloved dinosaurs of modern times, such as the Triceratops and, of course, the Tyrannosaurus-rex, king of the dinosaurs.
The climate remained similar to that of the Jurassic period, hot and humid.
However, a few notable changes have taken place. The environment evolved to the point that flowering plants (angiosperms) began to appear for the first time.
This has contributed to the increase in insect populations.
The Cretaceous period marks the end of the age of dinosaurs with what is known as the Great Extinction.
The Chicxulub crater in the Yucatan in North America dates precisely from this time.
When the asteroid collided with Earth, its impact triggered shock waves, massive tsunamis and sent a large cloud of hot rock and dust into the atmosphere.