Tree Rings, Ice Cores, and Varves

Tree Rings, Ice Cores, and Varves

Scientists use natural records such as tree rings, ice cores, and varves to study past climate conditions. These records reveal temperature, precipitation, and atmospheric composition over thousands of years.

• Tree Rings – Trees grow new rings each year. The thickness of each rin...

Did you know that trees, ice, and even lake sediments can help us learn about Earth's past?

Let's start with tree rings. If you cut into a tree, you'll see rings. Each light band shows summer growth, and each dark band shows winter growth, representing one year together. Scientists can count these rings to determine the tree's age.

I...