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18) The Cenozoic was characterized by many ice ages. List geologic changes that contributed to cooling and ice ages in this era.

18) The Cenozoic was characterized by many ice ages. List geologic changes that contributed to cooling and ice ages in this era.

Applications and Investigations in Earth Science (9th Edition)
Applications and Investigations in Earth Science (9th Edition)
9th Edition
ISBN:9780134746241
Author:Edward J. Tarbuck, Frederick K. Lutgens, Dennis G. Tasa
Publisher:Edward J. Tarbuck, Frederick K. Lutgens, Dennis G. Tasa
Chapter1: The Study Of Minerals
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### Geologic Changes in the Cenozoic Era **Question 18:** The Cenozoic was characterized by many ice ages. List geologic changes that contributed to cooling and ice ages in this era. #### Explanation: The Cenozoic Era experienced significant cooling periods and the development of ice ages. Geologic changes that contributed to this climate shift include: 1. **Plate Tectonics:** The movement of continental plates altered ocean currents and climate. The separation of Antarctica from South America and Australia led to the development of the Antarctic Circumpolar Current, which isolated Antarctica and contributed to its glaciation. 2. **Mountain Building:** The uplift of major mountain ranges like the Himalayas and the Rockies influenced atmospheric circulation and weather patterns, increasing rates of erosion and the drawdown of atmospheric CO2. 3. **Ocean Circulation Changes:** As continents shifted, ocean gateways opened and closed, significantly impacting global ocean circulation patterns and heat distribution from the equator to the poles. 4. **Volcanic Activity:** Volcanic eruptions released aerosols and CO2, which initially cool the atmosphere but can contribute to warming over longer periods. However, extensive periods of volcanism can lead to weathering processes that draw down CO2. 5. **Milankovitch Cycles:** Changes in Earth's orbit and tilt affected solar radiation distribution, intensifying seasonality and contributing to glaciation cycles. These geologic changes worked in tandem to drive the cooling processes that defined much of the Cenozoic Era's climate.
Transcribed Image Text:### Geologic Changes in the Cenozoic Era **Question 18:** The Cenozoic was characterized by many ice ages. List geologic changes that contributed to cooling and ice ages in this era. #### Explanation: The Cenozoic Era experienced significant cooling periods and the development of ice ages. Geologic changes that contributed to this climate shift include: 1. **Plate Tectonics:** The movement of continental plates altered ocean currents and climate. The separation of Antarctica from South America and Australia led to the development of the Antarctic Circumpolar Current, which isolated Antarctica and contributed to its glaciation. 2. **Mountain Building:** The uplift of major mountain ranges like the Himalayas and the Rockies influenced atmospheric circulation and weather patterns, increasing rates of erosion and the drawdown of atmospheric CO2. 3. **Ocean Circulation Changes:** As continents shifted, ocean gateways opened and closed, significantly impacting global ocean circulation patterns and heat distribution from the equator to the poles. 4. **Volcanic Activity:** Volcanic eruptions released aerosols and CO2, which initially cool the atmosphere but can contribute to warming over longer periods. However, extensive periods of volcanism can lead to weathering processes that draw down CO2. 5. **Milankovitch Cycles:** Changes in Earth's orbit and tilt affected solar radiation distribution, intensifying seasonality and contributing to glaciation cycles. These geologic changes worked in tandem to drive the cooling processes that defined much of the Cenozoic Era's climate.
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