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The shaping of Earth by glaciers is mainly due to the climate of the last 1,8 to 2 million years (Pleistocene). This was a period characterized by glacial cycles, separated at intervals by post glacial and inter glacial ones, during which glaciers underwent massive reductions compared to the levels reached during glaciation peaks.
About 10’000 years ago the present geological epoch (Holocene), characterized by a much warmer climate and smaller mountain glaciers, started. Also this phase, however, exhibits irregular cycles of glacier advance and retreat.
According to the theory of Serb scientist M. Milankovich (1879-1958), climate changes are connected with astronomical phenomena which modify the amount of solar energy received by Earth. According to this theory there are three fundamental cycles, lasting respectively 100’000, 43’000, and 24’000+19’000 (the latter connected with each other). Each 100’000, 43’000, 24’000 and 19’000 years, therefore, Earth’s climate is subject to change. The Milankovich theory has been confirmed by a completely different research, dealing with marine sediments, carried out by Italian scientist Cesare Emiliani (1922-1995). |
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The imposing Cavagliasco gorge
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