The world 20,000 years ago, during the Last Glacial Maximum, was significantly colder and covered in much more ice than it is today. According to available information, the average global temperature was dramatically lower.
Last Glacial Maximum: A Frozen World
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Ice Coverage: "Much of the Earth was covered in ice" (20,000 YEARS AGO). This extensive ice cover significantly altered landscapes and sea levels.
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Temperature: The average global temperature was considerably colder. "The average global temperature may have been as much as 10 degrees Celsius colder than that of today" (20,000 YEARS AGO).
Key Differences Compared to Today
| Feature | 20,000 Years Ago (Last Glacial Maximum) | Today |
|---|---|---|
| Ice Coverage | Much of the Earth covered in ice | Significantly less ice coverage |
| Global Temperature | Up to 10°C colder | Warmer average global temperatures |
| Sea Levels | Lower | Higher due to melted ice from past glaciation |
Environmental Impact
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Sea Level Changes: Enormous ice sheets locked up vast amounts of water, resulting in substantially lower sea levels compared to present day.
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Vegetation: The distribution of plant life was drastically different, with tundra and ice-adapted vegetation dominating regions that are now temperate forests or grasslands.
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Animal Distribution: Animal ranges also shifted, with species adapted to cold climates found in areas that are currently much warmer.
Earth's Climate Cycles
It's important to remember that "The Earth has a long history of cycles between warming and cooling" (20,000 YEARS AGO). The Last Glacial Maximum was simply one point in this ongoing cyclical process.
