Kvartiääriset

Kvartiääriset refers to the geological epoch that began approximately 2.58 million years ago and continues to the present day. It is the most recent of the three periods in the Cenozoic Era. This epoch is characterized by significant climatic changes, most notably the onset of a series of glacial and interglacial cycles, often referred to as the ice ages. During these periods, large ice sheets repeatedly advanced and retreated across parts of the Earth's surface, profoundly shaping landscapes through erosion and deposition.

The Quaternary Period is divided into two epochs: the Pleistocene and the Holocene. The Pleistocene, which spans from 2.58 million to about 11,700 years ago, is known for the dominance of large mammals, including mammoths, saber-toothed cats, and early humans. The Holocene epoch began approximately 11,700 years ago and continues to the present. This epoch is marked by a warming climate following the last glacial period and the rise of human civilization and agriculture. Key geological events of the Quaternary include the formation of many present-day landforms, such as moraines, outwash plains, and glacial lakes. The study of the Quaternary is crucial for understanding Quaternary glaciation, paleoclimatology, and the evolution of human history and its impact on the environment.