What is the Anthropocene? a. the epoch during which anthropoids emerged from early primates b. the epoch between the Miocene and Pliocene, during which modern humans emerged c. a proposed new geological epoch during which humans have a profound role in changing the planet's land surface and atmosphere d. the name given for the span of time from the Eocene to the present studied by physical anthropologists.

The correct answer is c. a proposed new geological epoch during which humans have a profound role in changing the planet's land surface and atmosphere

Explanation:

First coined by Soviet scientists during the 1960s, the Anthropocene refers to a proposed new geological epoch during which have a profound role in changing the planet's land surface and atmosphere. According to geologists, we currently live during the Holocene epoch, which started roughly 11-12 thousand years ago. The beginning of this epoch was marked by the end of the Last Glacial Period, which is considered to be the last major event to have a significant mark upon the whole planet. However, many argue now that the human footprint on the Earth has been significant enough to leave lasting and unmistakable effects, and that because of this, a new geological epoch must be declared. While there's a debate surrounding this proposal, many scientists argue that the start date of the Anthropocene should be set somewhere in the mid-20th century, coinciding with the period of major development and detonation of nuclear weapons.