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Effects of the Earth's changing orbit

Description

Professor Iain Stewart explains how the temperature of the earth is affected by its orbit round the sun, and the tilt of its axis. This was a theory put forward by James Croll. Professor Stewart draws the changing orbit of the earth around the sun on a sandy beach. He explains why this causes temperatures to fall and how this can be exaggerated by the changing tilt of the earth.

Classroom Ideas

Use to introduce the concept of Quaternary climate change, either to inform discussion of current climate change issues or to explain the cyclical nature of glacial periods.

Global issues

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