Ice Ages

Ice Ages are periods in Earth's history characterized by significant and prolonged global cooling, where large ice sheets cover significant portions of the continents. These cycles occur due to changes in the Earth's orbit, solar energy, and atmospheric conditions. The most recent Ice Age began around 2.6 million years ago and led to the formation of glaciers in North America and Europe. Ice Ages can last thousands to millions of years, alternating with warmer interglacial periods. Understanding Ice Ages helps scientists study climate change and its impacts on the planet's ecosystems and human history.