The concept of the 'Anthropocene' has gained traction among geologists as a proposed new geological epoch defined by human impact on Earth's systems. Unlike previous epochs, which were shaped by natural forces such as glaciation or volcanic activity, the Anthropocene is characterized by markers including radioactive isotopes from nuclear tests, plastic pollution, and elevated carbon dioxide levels. However, the formal recognition of this epoch remains contentious. Critics argue that the term oversimplifies complex human-environment interactions and that the proposed markers, such as the mid-20th century 'bomb spike,' may not represent a globally synchronous boundary. Proponents counter that the scale and permanence of human alterations, particularly in sedimentary records, justify a distinct epoch. The debate reflects broader questions about how science defines time and humanity's role in planetary history.
❓ Según el pasaje, ¿cuál de las siguientes es una razón por la que algunos geólogos se oponen al reconocimiento formal del Antropoceno?
A. Los marcadores propuestos no son universalmente consistentes en todo el mundo.
B. El término no tiene en cuenta fuerzas naturales como la glaciación.
C. Los isótopos radiactivos no son detectables en los registros sedimentarios.
D. El impacto humano en los sistemas de la Tierra es demasiado menor para definir una nueva época.
✅ 正确答案
The proposed markers are not universally consistent across the globe.
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