The concept of the 'Anthropocene' has gained considerable traction in geological and environmental circles, though its formal recognition as a new epoch remains contentious. Proponents argue that human activities, particularly since the mid-20th century, have left a distinct and permanent marker in the stratigraphic record, such as radioactive isotopes from nuclear tests and microplastics in sedimentary layers. Conversely, critics contend that geological time scales are far too vast for such a recent and relatively thin layer to warrant a separate epoch, suggesting instead that these changes might be better classified as a 'geological event' within the Holocene. This debate underscores a fundamental tension between the precise, empirical standards of stratigraphy and the broader, more urgent narrative of human impact on Earth's systems.
❓ ¿Cuál es el principal punto de desacuerdo entre los defensores y los críticos del Antropoceno según se describe en el pasaje?
A. A. Si las actividades humanas han causado cambios permanentes en la geología de la Tierra.
B. B. Si la evidencia geológica del impacto humano es lo suficientemente significativa como para definir una nueva época.
C. C. Si los isótopos radiactivos o los microplásticos son marcadores más fiables del impacto humano.
D. D. Si la época del Holoceno ha terminado o continúa hasta el día de hoy.
✅ 正确答案
B. Whether the geological evidence for human impact is significant enough to define a new epoch.
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