Little Ice Age

Definition

The Little Ice Age was a period of cooler climate that occurred from roughly the 14th to the mid-19th century. It had significant impacts on agriculture, weather patterns, and human societies in Europe and North America.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Little Ice Age coincided with a period of low solar activity known as the Maunder Minimum.
2. During the Little Ice Age, sunspot numbers were significantly reduced, indicating lower solar output.
3. Volcanic activity during this period contributed to global cooling by releasing aerosols that reflected sunlight away from Earth.
4. Lower temperatures during the Little Ice Age led to harsher winters and shorter growing seasons in many parts of the world.
5. Studying the Little Ice Age helps scientists understand how variations in solar activity can impact Earth's climate.

Review Questions

• What was the time frame of the Little Ice Age?
• How did sunspot numbers during the Little Ice Age compare to other periods?
• What role did volcanic activity play in the climate changes observed during the Little Ice Age?

Related terms

Maunder Minimum:

A period of low sunspot activity between approximately 1645 and 1715 that coincided with part of the Little Ice Age.

Solar Activity: The fluctuating performance of processes occurring within and around the Sun, including sunspots, solar flares, and coronal mass ejections.

Sunspot: A temporary phenomenon on the Sun's photosphere that appears as spots darker than surrounding areas; they are associated with magnetic field fluctuations and are indicators of solar activity levels.