earth's climate history

In what type of climate do trees produce narrower rings?

cool and dry

Which played a major role in altering wind patterns and ocean currents?

movement of continents

What should scientists consider when studying tree rings to understand the variations in the local climate?

patterns in their width, their density, and their composition

What do scientists study to reconstruct past climate conditions?

pollen grains, tree rings, and fossils

What do glaciers deposit that helps scientists study ancient climates?

sediment that contains fossils

What most likely caused the ice ages?

the tilt of the Earth's axis and the shape of its orbit

What is the relationship between Earth's temperature and the number of sunspots that occur?

An increased number of sunspots causes an increase in Earth's temperature.

Which statement best explains how tectonic activity affects long-term climate change?

The movement of continents changes wind patterns and ocean currents.

How do scientists study pollen grains to help them understand climate change?

by analyzing and making inferences about them

In what type of climate do trees produce wider rings?

warm and wet