The concept of the 'Anthropocene' has gained traction among geologists as a proposed new geological epoch defined by significant human impact on Earth's systems. Proponents argue that markers such as plastic pollution, radioactive isotopes from nuclear tests, and elevated carbon dioxide levels are distinct enough to warrant a formal boundary in the stratigraphic record. However, critics contend that human-induced changes are diachronous, occurring at different times across the globe, which undermines the utility of a single, globally synchronous marker. This debate highlights a fundamental tension in geology between the need for precise chronological definitions and the recognition of complex, spatially variable environmental processes.
❓ Согласно тексту, какова основная причина, по которой критики выступают против определения антропоцена как формальной геологической эпохи?
A. Воздействие человека недостаточно значительно, чтобы оставить долговременные геологические следы.
B. Предложенные маркеры, такие как загрязнение пластиком, слишком недавние для изучения.
C. Антропогенные изменения не происходили одновременно по всему миру, что усложняет определение глобальной границы.
D. Концепция антропоцена имеет мало отношения к стратиграфическим исследованиям.
✅ 正确答案
Human-induced changes did not occur simultaneously worldwide, complicating a global boundary.
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