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Which is (are) an example of a phenomena that can result in unforced fluctuations to Earth's climate?

1. Solar variability
2. Orbital changes
3. Continental movements and ocean currents

User Manatwork
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Final answer:

Natural phenomena that result in unforced fluctuations to Earth's climate include solar variability, orbital changes, continental movements, and ocean currents. These factors function over long timescales and are distinct from the rapid climate changes observed since the Industrial Revolution, which are mainly human-induced.

Step-by-step explanation:

Unforced fluctuations to Earth's climate can result from several natural phenomena such as solar variability, orbital changes, and continental movements, and ocean currents. These factors have influenced the Earth’s climate system over various time scales. For example, the Medieval Climate Anomaly and the Little Ice Age were periods affected by such natural factors.

Solar variability, like the reduced solar activity during the Little Ice Age, can lead to cooler global temperatures. Orbital changes, known as Milankovitch cycles, contribute to the onset and retreat of ice ages by altering the amount of solar energy Earth receives. Lastly, shifts in continental positions can change ocean currents, thus redistributing heat around the planet. These processes are slow and their impacts on climate develop over extended periods, unlike the much more rapid changes observed since the Industrial Revolution that have been primarily attributed to human activities.

User Jwadsack
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