stadial

A stadial is a term used in geology and climatology to describe a period of cooler climate within an interglacial or interstadial period. Stadials are characterized by colder temperatures and increased ice accumulation, often resulting in the formation of glaciers or the expansion of existing ones. They are typically shorter in duration compared to glacial periods and are often associated with fluctuations in the Earth's climate system.

Stadials can occur due to various factors, including changes in solar radiation, volcanic activity, and shifts in ocean currents. These periods are often marked by the deposition of glacial sediments, such as till and moraines, which can be used to study past climate conditions. Stadials are an important component of the Earth's climate history, providing insights into the mechanisms that drive climate change and the potential for future climate variability.

The term "stadial" is derived from the Latin word "stadium," which means "stage" or "phase." It was first introduced by the Swiss geologist and glaciologist Hans R. Reimann in the 1970s to describe the cooler phases within interglacial periods. Since then, the term has been widely adopted in the scientific community to describe these climate fluctuations.