Causes

• What is the natural function of the Earth's atmosphere?

  To keep in some heat lost from Earth
• What is the greenhouse effect?

  It traps heat radiated from Earth
• What type of radiation does the Sun emit?

  Short-wave radiation
• What happens to the heat after the Earth's surface absorbs it?

  The Earth gives off long-wave radiation
• What are greenhouse gases?

  Gases that trap heat in the atmosphere
• Name three greenhouse gases.

  Methane, carbon dioxide, nitrous oxide
• How do greenhouse gases affect the Earth's temperature?

  They radiate heat back towards Earth
• What human activity releases carbon dioxide into the atmosphere?

  Burning fossil fuels
• What is the effect of deforestation on carbon dioxide levels?

  It increases carbon dioxide in the atmosphere
• What gas is produced when waste decomposes in landfill?

  Methane
• How does agriculture contribute to global warming?

  It releases nitrogen oxides into the atmosphere
• What natural factors contribute to global warming?

  Orbital changes, volcanic activity, solar output
• What are Milankovitch cycles?

  Natural warming and cooling periods of Earth
• What happens during a volcanic eruption regarding carbon dioxide?

  Carbon dioxide is released into the atmosphere
• How does solar output affect Earth's temperatures?

  Fluctuations can increase Earth's temperatures
• How do human activities and natural factors compare in contributing to global warming?

  Both increase greenhouse gases in the atmosphere