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The cause of ice ages remains controversial for both the large-scale ice age periods and the smaller ebb and flow of glacial/interglacial periods within an ice age. The general consensus is that it is a combination of several important factors: atmospheric composition (the relative amounts of water vapor, carbon dioxide, methane, sulfur dioxide, and various other gases and particulates in the atmosphere), changes in the Earth's orbit around the Sun known as Milankovitch cycles (and possibly the Sun's orbit around the galaxy), the motion of tectonic plates resulting in changes in the relative location and amount of continental and oceanic crust on the Earth's surface, variations in solar output, the orbital dynamics of the Earth-Moon system, the impact of relatively large meteorites, and eruptions of super volcanoes.

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Where on earth did the ice age happen?

The ice age occurred in various regions around the world, including North America, Europe, and Asia. Glaciers covered much of these continents during the peak of the ice age, shaping the landscape and influencing climate patterns.


What two pieces of evidence led to the discovery of how an ice age can happen?

Two key pieces of evidence that led to the discovery of how an ice age can happen are the study of ice cores, which provide a record of past climate conditions, and the identification of Milankovitch cycles, which are variations in Earth's orbit and axial tilt that can influence climate over long periods of time. These pieces of evidence helped scientists better understand the mechanisms that can trigger ice ages.


Did ice ages really occur?

Yes, ice ages are periods of long-term reduction in the Earth's temperature, leading to the expansion of ice sheets and glaciers. These periods are identified by a cooling of the Earth's climate and the advance of ice sheets to cover large portions of land. The most recent ice age, known as the Last Glacial Maximum, occurred around 20,000 years ago.


How much of the Earth was covered in ice during the Ice Age?

During the Ice Age, approximately 30 of the Earth's surface was covered in ice.


Where did the ice age happen?

The ice age occurred primarily in the Northern Hemisphere, affecting areas such as North America, Europe, and Asia. Glaciers expanded over continents like North America and Northern Europe, shaping the landscape and climate patterns during this period.