An important long-term factor determining whether glacial ice will form on the continents may be the proportion of which gas in the atmosphere?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Carbon dioxide is a greenhouse gas that traps heat from the sun in the atmosphere. When there is a high concentration of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere, it can lead to a warmer climate, which can prevent the formation of glacial ice on the continents. Conversely, when there is a low concentration of carbon dioxide, it can lead to a cooler climate, which is more conducive to the formation of glacial ice. This has been demonstrated by geological and paleontological evidence, which shows that periods of glaciation in Earth's history have been associated with low levels of atmospheric carbon dioxide.

An Important Long-Term Factor Determining Whether Glacial Ice Will Form