Glacial Intervals

Glacial intervals, also known as glacial periods, are times in Earth’s history when large ice sheets covered significant parts of the planet, particularly in the Northern Hemisphere. These intervals are part of the larger cycle of ice ages, which alternate between warmer interglacial periods and colder glacial ones. During glacial intervals, temperatures drop, sea levels decrease, and ecosystems shift, affecting climate and living conditions. These cycles are driven by changes in Earth’s orbit, axial tilt, and solar radiation, and have occurred several times over millions of years, shaping the planet's geology and influencing the development of life.