Question: In my college geology class, I remember studying where scientists documented something to do with the rotation of the earth changes periodically. I can’t remember whether it’s the magnetism at the poles or what but something changes. Does any freeper remember studying something like this too? And if so, would something like this impact the climate?
The angular tilt (against the Sun) is probably what you are referring to.
Over the last century, both the north and south magnetic poles have been drifting north (that is, toward the geographic north pole, which itself wanders somewhat, but let's not make this more complicated than it already is). The north magnetic pole historically has moved at a rate of about ten kilometers per year, but has lately accelerated, heading toward Russia at four times that rate.
The magnetic field of the earth dramatically & suddenly shifts once every 10s of thousands of years. No one knows why or how, as human-kind hasn’t been around to experience one yet with scientific instruments on hand. The most noticeable result of all this will be that all compasses will point South afterwards. I’ve heard tell that it may also short out all the unshielded electronics on the planet. I’ve also heard theorized that the Earth’s magnetic field dramatically weakens afterwards which will leave humans open to unhealthy radiation exposure.
My understanding is that there is no correlation with climate.
Also, magnetic North is currently migrating towards Russia. Call your congressman.
Our orbit isn’t a perfect circle. The “tilt” also changes. It has cycles which changes our climate.