The estimated age of the Earth is about 4.54 billion years, with a margin of error of approximately 1%. This estimate is based on evidence from radiometric age dating of the oldest rocks on Earth, as well as meteorites and lunar samples. The Earth's formation occurred shortly after the solar system began to coalesce from a nebular cloud of gas and dust. Over billions of years, the planet went through significant geological changes, including the formation of continents, oceans, and the atmosphere. This age creates a backdrop for understanding the evolution of life, including ecosystems and biodiversity throughout Earth’s history.