Scientists believe that the (Milankovitch cycles, tilt of the earths axis, sea levels, low temperature) explain why Earth’s (climate has, tilt of earths axis has, low temperatures have, sea levels have) fluctuated between glacial periods and interglacial periods.
Possible answers are in the parenthesis. I think the answer is sea level and then climate. Please help.
Milankovitch cycles (climate has
The correct answer is Milankovitch cycles and tilt of the Earth's axis. Scientists believe that these two factors play a significant role in explaining why Earth's climate has fluctuated between glacial periods and interglacial periods. The Milankovitch cycles are long-term variations in Earth's orbit and are caused by changes in the shape of Earth's orbit, the tilt of its axis, and the precession of Earth's axis. These cycles affect the amount and distribution of solar radiation that reaches Earth's surface, which in turn influences climate patterns. The tilt of Earth's axis also plays a role in determining the amount of solar radiation received in different regions throughout the year, which can further impact climate.
You're on the right track! The key here is understanding how certain factors influence the Earth's climate and contribute to the alternating glacial (cold) and interglacial (warmer) periods. Let's analyze each option to determine the correct answers:
1. Milankovitch cycles: These are regular variations in the Earth's axial tilt, eccentricity of its orbit, and the precession of its axis. While Milankovitch cycles do impact the Earth's climate over long timescales, they do not directly explain the fluctuations between glacial and interglacial periods. So, we can exclude this option.
2. Tilt of the Earth's axis: This factor refers to the angle at which the Earth's axis is tilted relative to its orbital plane around the sun. The tilt of the Earth's axis does play a significant role in driving glacial and interglacial periods, as it affects the distribution of solar energy received by different parts of the Earth throughout the year. Therefore, this option seems to be correct.
3. Sea levels: Although sea levels are influenced by factors such as changes in the amount of ice during glacial and interglacial periods, they do not directly explain the fluctuations between these periods. So, we can exclude this option.
4. Low temperature: Low temperatures are a consequence of glacial periods rather than an explanation for their occurrence. Therefore, this option can be excluded.
Based on this analysis, the correct answer is indeed the "Tilt of the Earth's axis" which influences the Earth's climate and leads to the alternation of glacial and interglacial periods.