theory of astronomical cycles
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The theory of astronomical cycles, also known as Milankovitch cycles, explains how variations in Earth's orbit around the Sun influence climate over long periods. These cycles involve changes in Earth's orbital eccentricity, axial tilt, and precession, which alter the distribution of solar radiation received by the planet. These shifts in solar energy input are considered a primary driver of glacial-interglacial cycles and other climate variations throughout Earth's history.12
Geology is the study of the solid Earth, including its composition, structure, and the processes that shape it. It encompasses various subdisciplines like mineralogy, geochemistry, and geophysics, and it provides the framework for understanding Earth's evolution over billions of years. The rock record is crucial for tracing these changes, offering insights into the development of continents, oceans, and the atmosphere.34
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