The concept of the 'Anthropocene' has gained traction among geologists as a proposed new geological epoch defined by significant human impact on Earth's geology and ecosystems. Unlike previous epochs, which were demarcated by natural events such as ice ages or asteroid impacts, the Anthropocene is characterized by markers like radioactive isotopes from nuclear tests, plastic pollution, and elevated carbon dioxide levels. However, scholars debate its formal recognition, arguing that human influence began thousands of years ago with agriculture, not just in the mid-20th century. This disagreement highlights the challenge of defining a time boundary when human activities have been gradual yet globally pervasive.
❓ 인류세를 새로운 지질 시대(지질학적 세대)로 공식 인정하는 데 대한 논쟁의 주요 이유는 무엇인가?
A. A. 인간의 영향 흔적은 지질학적 기록에서 감지되지 않는다.
B. B. 과학자들은 인간이 지구에 미친 영향이 언제부터 본격적으로 시작되었는지에 대해 의견이 분분하다.
C. C. 그 시대는 너무 최근이라 지질학자들이 연구하기 어렵다.
D. D. 인간의 활동은 지구의 생태계에 전 세계적으로 영향을 미치지 않았다.
✅ 正确答案
B. Scientists disagree on when human influence on Earth began significantly.
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