SCI CHP 16: Part 7- Glaciacion Over view and Causes

Which term describes shifts in the tilt of the Earth's axis that influence the intensity of the seasons?

• Axial precession
• Lunar cycles
• Solar flares
• Equinox variation

Which of the following is defined as a change in the Earth's orbit around the sun, from circular to oblong?

• Eccentricity
• Axial tilt
• Aphelion
• Perihelion

During an ice age, we see the covering of large areas with glaciers. In other words, we see episodes of fairly extensive what?

• deglaciation
• glacier retreat
• glaciation
• interglacial period

Consider the lists below and indicate which list BEST describes the three variations in the earth's orbit as explained in the Milankovitch theory.

• Seasonal changes, tidal forces, volcanic activity
• 1. Eccentricity, obliquity, and precession

• Atmospheric pressure, ocean currents, tectonic shifts
• Obliquity, solar cycles, magnetic field

How might the changing continental positions affect glaciation?

• 1. Continents do not move and therefore have no effect on climate and glaciation.

• 1. The movement of the continents affects the circulation patterns of the oceans and atmosphere. This results in climate change and glaciation.

• 1. When continents move apart, this allows magma from deep layers of the earth to emerge and melt glaciers. When continents move together, they seal up the magma which cools the earth's temperature and causes glaciation.

• 1. The continents are constantly moving north and south. This causes changes in climates on each continent and, when continents are nearer the poles, glaciation occurs.