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. Unlike earlier epochs, which were delineated 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, the formal recognition of this epoch remains contentious. Critics argue that human activity has not yet produced a sufficiently distinct and permanent stratigraphic signature to justify a new epoch, whereas proponents emphasize the unprecedented scale and speed of environmental change. This debate reflects broader questions about how science categorizes time and the role of human agency in shaping planetary history.
❓ Según el pasaje, ¿cuál es una razón principal de la controversia sobre el Antropoceno?
A. A. La época propuesta carece de marcadores claros del impacto humano.
B. B. Algunos científicos cuestionan si los efectos humanos son lo suficientemente distintivos y duraderos.
C. C. El Antropoceno se basa únicamente en eventos naturales como las edades de hielo.
D. D. No hay evidencia de pruebas nucleares ni de contaminación por plásticos en los registros geológicos.
✅ 正确答案
B. Some scientists question whether human effects are distinctive and lasting enough.
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