What is the theory that suggests most fossils were formed during a significant historical flood?

The theory suggesting that most fossils were formed during a significant historical flood is known as the Deluge fossil formation theory. This concept is rooted in the idea that a catastrophic flooding event could have provided the necessary conditions for rapid burial of organisms, which is essential for fossilization. The theory posits that as sediment is deposited by moving water, it can cover and preserve biological material quickly, thereby leading to a higher likelihood of fossilization.

In the context of fossil formation, the rapid accumulation of sediments during such a flood could inhibit decomposition and promote the conditions needed for fossils to form. This viewpoint reflects a perspective on geological history that emphasizes dramatic, large-scale events impacting the Earth's surface and its biosphere, as opposed to slower, gradual processes typically highlighted in other theories.

The other options presented do not relate to fossil formation directly. Options like the Continental drift theory explore the movement of Earth's tectonic plates affecting species distribution and geology, while the Panspermia theory deals with the origins of life through extraterrestrial means, and the Cretaceous-Paleogene extinction theory focuses on the mass extinction event that occurred approximately 66 million years ago, primarily due to an asteroid impact. Each of these theories provides valuable insights into different aspects of biology and geology,