The concept of the 'Anthropocene' has gained significant traction in geological and environmental circles, proposing that human activity has become a dominant force shaping the Earth's systems. Unlike previous geological epochs, which were defined by natural phenomena such as ice ages or asteroid impacts, the Anthropocene is characterized by markers like plastic pollution, nuclear fallout, and a dramatic spike in carbon dioxide levels. However, the formal recognition of this epoch remains contentious. Some scientists argue that the changes are too recent and not yet fully stratified in the geological record, while others contend that the scale and irreversibility of human impact warrant a distinct epoch. This debate underscores a deeper question: whether human influence has truly pushed the planet into a new geological reality, or whether we are merely witnessing an accelerated phase of a longer natural cycle.
❓ According to the passage, what is the primary reason for the controversy surrounding the formal recognition of the Anthropocene?
A. A. The markers of the Anthropocene, such as plastic pollution, are not universally accepted as significant.
B. B. Some experts doubt that human-induced changes are sufficiently recent and clearly recorded in geological layers.
C. C. The concept of the Anthropocene conflicts with the idea of natural geological epochs like ice ages.
D. D. There is no evidence that human activity has altered carbon dioxide levels on a global scale.
✅ 正确答案
B. Some experts doubt that human-induced changes are sufficiently recent and clearly recorded in geological layers.
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)
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