The research area of the ice age focuses on studying the periods in Earth's history when large portions of the planet were covered in ice sheets and glaciers. These periods are characterized by significantly lower global temperatures and widespread glaciation. Scientists study ice age cycles, causes, and impacts on the environment, climate, and ecosystems. Research in this area involves analyzing geological evidence, such as ice core samples, tree rings, and fossil records, to understand past ice ages and predict future climate changes. Additionally, researchers investigate the role of human activity in current climate change and its potential impact on future ice age cycles.