Which epochs make up the Quaternary Period?

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The Quaternary Period is formally divided into two epochs: the Pleistocene Epoch and the Holocene Epoch.12

  • Pleistocene Epoch: Spanning from approximately 2.6 million years ago to 11,700 years ago, this epoch is characterized by a succession of glacial and interglacial climatic cycles.2
  • Holocene Epoch: Beginning 11,700 years ago, this is the current epoch in which we live.23

Additionally, the Anthropocene Epoch has been proposed as a third, potential division of the Quaternary Period. This term is used to describe an interval characterized by the significant impact of human activity on Earth's systems; however, it remains an unofficial designation that has not yet been formally adopted by the International Union of Geological Sciences.3