It is now virtually certain that the dominant cause of recent ice ages is A)the blocking of sunlight by volcanic eruptions. B)variations in Earth-Sun orbital relationships. C)changes in radiation output from the Sun. D)the blocking of sunlight by galactic dust. E)changing ocean salinity and rates of evaporation.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Variations in Earth-Sun orbital relationships, known as Milankovitch cycles, are the dominant cause of the ice ages. These cycles involve changes in the Earth's orbit, tilt, and precession, which affect the amount of solar radiation received by different parts of the planet.

It Is Now Virtually Certain That the dominant Cause of Recent