Final answer:
The method not involved in recording climate data is identifying phosphorus levels in fossils. Climate scientists commonly use ice cores, pollen analysis, and dendrochronology to understand past climate conditions.
So, the correct answer is C. Identifying phosphorus levels in fossils.
Step-by-step explanation:
The option that is NOT involved in recording climate data is indentifying phosphorus levels in fossils. Phosphorus levels in fossils are typically not used to record historical climate data. Instead, they may be more relevant in studies of biogeochemical cycles or ancient ecosystems.
Climate scientists use various methods to reconstruct past climates, known as proxy data. Some of the common proxies include:
- Investigating air bubbles trapped in ice cores to analyze atmospheric composition and temperature from the past.
- Analyzing species of pollen to infer the types of vegetation and therefore the climate of the time.
- Studying tree rings, also known as dendrochronology, which can indicate the age of a tree and provide information about historical weather patterns and climate conditions.
Each of these methods contributes to the understanding of Earth's climate history and changes over time.
So, the correct answer is C. Identifying phosphorus levels in fossils.