PETM (Paleocene-Eocene Thermal Maximum)

The Paleocene-Eocene Thermal Maximum (PETM) was a rapid global warming event around 56 million years ago, characterized by a significant increase in Earth's temperatures and a massive release of carbon into the atmosphere. This influx of carbon, likely from volcanic activity or methane release from the oceans, caused temperatures to rise by about 5-8°C over a few thousand years. The event led to major changes in marine and land ecosystems, with many species adapting or going extinct. The PETM provides insight into how Earth's climate can change quickly due to greenhouse gas fluctuations, helping us understand potential future climate impacts.