The concept of the 'Anthropocene' has gained traction among geologists and environmental scientists as a proposed new geological epoch defined by significant human impact on Earth's geology and ecosystems. Unlike previous epochs, which were delineated by natural climatic shifts or biological events, the Anthropocene is marked by anthropogenic markers such as radioactive isotopes from nuclear tests, plastic pollution, and elevated carbon dioxide levels. However, the formal recognition of this epoch remains contentious. Critics argue that human impacts, while profound, are not yet stratigraphically distinct enough to warrant a new epoch, as many changes are still in flux. Proponents counter that the scale and permanence of human alterations, including species extinction rates and terraforming activities, justify a distinct boundary. This debate underscores a broader tension between scientific classification and the growing awareness of humanity's role as a geological agent.
❓ Según el pasaje, ¿cuál es la razón principal de la controversia sobre el reconocimiento formal del Antropoceno como una nueva época geológica?
A. A. Los impactos humanos aún no son lo suficientemente generalizados como para afectar los ecosistemas globales.
B. B. Algunos científicos dudan de que los cambios inducidos por el ser humano sean estratigráficamente distintos y lo suficientemente permanentes.
C. C. La época propuesta carece de marcadores claros como isótopos radiactivos o contaminación por plásticos.
D. D. Los críticos creen que los cambios climáticos naturales son más significativos que las actividades humanas.
✅ 正确答案
B. Some scientists doubt that human-induced changes are stratigraphically distinct and permanent enough.
IELTS Reading Tips
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