Ep 12. America's Ice Age

In season two, episode 12 of How the Earth Was Made, titled "America's Ice Age," viewers are taken on a journey through time to explore the geological forces and natural events that led to the formation of the vast ice sheets that once covered North America.

The episode begins by setting the stage for the last Ice Age, which started approximately 2.5 million years ago. As the Earth's climate cooled, glaciers gradually began to form in the high mountain ranges of Alaska and western Canada. As the glaciers continued to grow over time, they eventually merged into giant ice sheets that spread across the continent.

The episode then delves into the different factors that contributed to the expansion of these ice sheets, including changes in the Earth's orbit and the lowering of global sea levels due to the formation of the ice sheets themselves. As the ice sheets grew, they drastically altered the landscape of North America, carving out valleys and creating new lakes and rivers.

One of the most fascinating aspects of the episode is its exploration of how the ice sheets affected the wildlife of North America. As temperatures dropped and the ice sheets expanded, animals such as woolly mammoths and saber-toothed cats were forced to adapt to new environments or face extinction. The episode takes a close look at several different species and how they were able to survive in this harsh new climate.

Throughout the episode, viewers are treated to stunning footage of glaciers, mountains, and other natural wonders. Experts in the field of geology and climate science weigh in on the various factors that led to the formation of North America's ice sheets, providing in-depth explanations and analyses of the geological processes at work.

Overall, "America's Ice Age" is a captivating and informative episode of How the Earth Was Made. By exploring the causes and effects of one of the most significant geological events in North American history, viewers gain a new appreciation for the power of nature and the complex interactions that shape our planet.