Studying Past Climate: How We Know What We Know

The chemical and physical properties of rocks are affected by the temperature and environmental conditions under which they formed.

Scientists can therefore study rocks of various ages to understand the history of Earth’s climate and apply those findings to present climatic conditions.

An assortment of small stones of various sizes, colors, and shapes.
Scientists study rocks of various ages to understand the history of Earth’s climate.

Oxygen Isotopes in the Shells of Tiny Sea Creatures Reflect Past Temperatures

Dr. Dan Schrag