Global Warming & Climate Change

• What are the two terms often used interchangeably regarding climate issues?

  Global warming and climate change
• What is the role of the atmosphere in relation to the Earth's temperature?

  It acts like an insulating blanket
• How does the sun's heat energy reach the Earth?

  As short wavelength radiation
• What happens to the sun's energy after it hits the Earth's surface?

  It is absorbed, re-emitted, or reflected
• What type of radiation is re-emitted back into the atmosphere?

  Longer wavelength radiation
• What happens to energy that collides with gas particles in the atmosphere?

  It is absorbed and re-emitted in random directions
• What is the greenhouse effect?

  The warming caused by greenhouse gases
• What are the two main reasons for rising carbon dioxide levels?

  Burning fossil fuels and deforestation
• How does deforestation contribute to rising carbon dioxide levels?

  It reduces photosynthesis, removing CO2
• What are the two main sources of increasing methane levels?

  Farm animals and waste decomposition
• Why is it difficult to predict the consequences of global warming?

  There are many variables to consider
• What does climate change refer to?

  Effects of global warming on climate
• How does climate differ from weather?

  Climate describes long-term weather patterns
• What are some consequences of global warming?

  More common and severe weather events
• What causes sea level rise due to global warming?

  Melting ice and thermal expansion of water
• What might happen to coastal towns due to sea level rise?

  They may experience seasonal flooding
• How does climate change affect biodiversity?

  Species may not adapt or migrate fast enough
• What are the main greenhouse gases and their effects?

  • Carbon dioxide: Increases due to fossil fuels and deforestation
  • Methane: Increases from livestock and waste decomposition
  • Water vapor: Contributes to the greenhouse effect
• What are the impacts of climate change on weather patterns?

  • Increased frequency of extreme weather events
  • More severe droughts, hurricanes, and floods
  • Long-term changes in temperature and precipitation
• What are the potential consequences of rising sea levels?

  • Seasonal flooding in coastal areas
  • Submersion of islands and towns
  • Increased salinity in freshwater sources
• How does global warming affect wildlife?

  • Changes in habitat suitability
  • Altered migration patterns
  • Increased risk of extinction for vulnerable species