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.
❓ 지문에 따르면, 인류세를 새로운 지질 시대(epoch)로 공식 인정하는 것에 대한 논쟁의 주요 이유는 무엇인가?
A. A. 인간의 영향이 아직 전 지구적 생태계에 영향을 미칠 만큼 광범위하지 않다.
B. B. 일부 과학자들은 인간이 유발한 변화가 층서학적으로 뚜렷하고 영구적일 만큼 충분하지 않다고 의심한다.
C. C. 제안된 시기는 방사성 동위원소나 플라스틱 오염과 같은 명확한 지표가 부족하다.
D. D. 비평가들은 자연적인 기후 변화가 인간 활동보다 더 중요하다고 믿는다.
✅ 正确答案
B. Some scientists doubt that human-induced changes are stratigraphically distinct and permanent enough.
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