If an ice core yields a greater number of O-18 than expected,which of the following can be best inferred from that section of core?
A) It was warmer.
B) It was colder.
C) It was drier.
D) It was moister.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

When an ice core has a higher ratio of oxygen-18 (O-18) to oxygen-16 (O-16), it suggests that the temperatures were warmer. This is because heavier isotopes of oxygen, like O-18, evaporate less readily and condense more easily than lighter isotopes, such as O-16. During warmer periods, more O-18 remains in vapor form and is thus more likely to fall as precipitation and become trapped in ice cores.

If an Ice Core Yields a Greater Number of O-18