Quaternary glaciation
Introduction
The Quaternary glaciation, also known as the Pleistocene glaciation, is a series of glacial events separated by interglacial events during the Quaternary period from 2.58 million years ago to present. These glacial and interglacial periods have been systematically occurring over time, leading to the formation of the earth's current landscape and climate.
Overview
The Quaternary glaciation is the most recent glaciation period within the current Ice Age which started 2.6 million years ago and is ongoing. This period is characterized by alternating glacial and interglacial periods. The glacials are also known as 'ice ages', while 'interglacials' are warmer periods between glacials. The glacials resulted in the ice caps of the Arctic and Antarctic, and the current ice age is the most severe of the five known ice ages.
Glacial and Interglacial Periods
During the Quaternary glaciation, there have been several glacial and interglacial periods. The glacials, or 'ice ages', are periods of time when a significant portion of the Earth's water is locked up in polar ice caps and glaciers. These periods are marked by a significant drop in global temperatures, resulting in the expansion of continental and polar ice sheets and alpine glaciers.
On the other hand, interglacials are periods of warmer climate between glacials. During an interglacial, the earth's climate becomes warmer, and the ice sheets and glaciers retreat. The current period, the Holocene, is an interglacial that began approximately 11,700 years ago.
Causes of Quaternary Glaciation
The causes of the Quaternary glaciation are complex and not fully understood. However, several key factors have been identified. These include changes in the Earth's orbit and tilt, known as Milankovitch cycles, changes in atmospheric carbon dioxide levels, and the distribution of continents.
Impact on Flora and Fauna
The Quaternary glaciation had a profound impact on the earth's flora and fauna. The repeated cycles of glacials and interglacials led to repeated episodes of expansion and contraction of habitats. This in turn led to speciation, extinction, and the distribution of species across the globe.
Human Evolution and Quaternary Glaciation
The Quaternary glaciation has also played a significant role in human evolution. The changing climates and environments shaped human evolution, influencing where our ancestors lived, their technology, diet, and behavior.
Conclusion
The Quaternary glaciation is a significant period in Earth's history. It has shaped the planet's landscape, climate, and biodiversity. It continues to influence our climate today, and understanding it is crucial for predicting future climate change.