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Ice Ages: Difference between revisions
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(Created page with "== Introduction == An Ice Age is a prolonged period of reduction in the temperature of the Earth's surface and atmosphere, resulting in the presence or expansion of continental and polar ice sheets and alpine glaciers. Ice ages have played a significant role in shaping the Earth's geological and ecological history. During these periods, large portions of the Earth's surface are covered by ice sheets, which have profound effects on the global climate, sea levels, and...") |
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The most recent ice age, known as the Quaternary Glaciation, began approximately 2.58 million years ago and continues to the present day. It is characterized by cycles of glacial and interglacial periods, driven by Milankovitch cycles and other factors. The current interglacial period, the [[Holocene]], began around 11,700 years ago. | The most recent ice age, known as the Quaternary Glaciation, began approximately 2.58 million years ago and continues to the present day. It is characterized by cycles of glacial and interglacial periods, driven by Milankovitch cycles and other factors. The current interglacial period, the [[Holocene]], began around 11,700 years ago. | ||
[[Image:Detail-104823.jpg|thumb|center|Scenic view of a glacial landscape with snow-covered mountains and a clear blue sky.]] | |||
== Impacts of Ice Ages == | == Impacts of Ice Ages == | ||