The concept of the 'Anthropocene' has sparked considerable debate among geologists, who question whether human activity has fundamentally altered the Earth's geological record. Proponents argue that markers such as plastic pollution, nuclear fallout, and elevated carbon dioxide levels constitute a distinct stratigraphic signature. However, critics contend that these changes, while significant, do not yet meet the formal criteria for a new epoch, which typically requires a global and synchronous signal preserved in rock layers. This disagreement highlights a broader tension between scientific classification and the urgency of environmental advocacy, as the term's popular usage often outpaces its technical validation.
❓ Какова основная причина, по которой некоторые геологи выступают против формализации антропоцена как новой эпохи?
A. A. Воздействие человека пока не видно в геологических слоях.
B. B. Предлагаемые маркеры не обладают глобально синхронным и устойчивым сигналом.
C. C. Экологические правозащитные группы оказали слишком сильное влияние на это решение.
D. D. Уровни углекислого газа не повысились достаточно значительно.
✅ 正确答案
B. The proposed markers lack a globally synchronous and enduring signal.
IELTS Reading Tips
Skim the questions first, underline keywords, then locate in the passage
Watch for paraphrasing; correct answers are often reworded
Be wary of absolute statements (all, always, never) — usually wrong
Pay attention to content after transition words (however, but, yet)
Manage time: about 20 minutes per passage; skip difficult questions first