Global cooling refers to a long-term decrease in Earth's average surface temperature. This phenomenon can occur due to various factors, including volcanic eruptions, changes in solar radiation, and human activities that affect the climate. Scientists study these patterns to understand their potential impacts on weather, agriculture, and ecosystems. In the 1970s, some scientists expressed concern about global cooling, suggesting that it could lead to harsher winters and shorter growing seasons. However, this idea has largely been overshadowed by the more pressing issue of global warming, which is primarily driven by increased levels of greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide in the atmosphere.