lecture 20

Question 1

What can we learn from ice cores

Answer 1

1. Composition of the atmosphere- from air bubbles trapped in the ice
2. Temperature of the atmosphere- from the oxygen isotopes of the ice itself
3. Amount of aerosols in atmosphere- volcanic ash, dust, pollution etc

Question 2

During a colder period on earth, will the ocean have a more positive or more negative delta 18

Answer 2

More positive