Historical development — Human technology ages Arrange the following eras into a meaningful chronological sequence (from earliest to latest): Atomic Age Metallic Age Stone Age Alloy Age

Introduction / Context:
The question assesses knowledge of broad technological phases in human history. While labels can vary in scope, there is a widely accepted sequence from primitive stone tools to advanced metallurgy and, finally, the nuclear/atomic era.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Stone Age denotes earliest extensive tool use with stone implements.
• Metallic Age indicates the historical move to metals (e.g., copper, bronze, iron).
• Alloy Age represents deliberate alloy-making maturity (beyond simple metals).
• Atomic Age follows the advent of nuclear science and technology in the 20th century.

Concept / Approach:
Place eras by technological capability: stone → metal → alloy specialization → atomic technology. The leap to nuclear science is the most recent.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Earliest is Stone Age → 3.Then societal mastery of metals → Metallic Age → 2.Refinement into alloy engineering → Alloy Age → 4.Modern nuclear era → Atomic Age → 1.

Verification / Alternative check:
Cross-check with common chronology: Paleolithic/Neolithic predate Bronze/Iron, which precede contemporary atomic developments. The ordered list matches this logic.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
1, 3, 4, 2 and 2, 3, 1, 4: Place the Atomic Age before ancient periods, which is impossible.4, 3, 2, 1: Begins with alloys before stone, anachronistic.3, 2, 1, 4: Puts Atomic before Alloy, against technological progression.

Common Pitfalls:
Confusing ”metal” and ”alloy” stages, or assuming the Atomic Age refers to general electricity use. It specifically denotes nuclear-era advances.

Final Answer:
3, 2, 4, 1