Greenhouse Gases & Climate Change

• What are the two terms often associated with 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?

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

  Some is absorbed, most is re-emitted
• What is the process of energy absorption and re-emission in the atmosphere called?

  The greenhouse effect
• Which gases are considered greenhouse gases?

  Carbon dioxide, methane, and water vapor
• What human activities are increasing carbon dioxide levels?

  Burning fossil fuels and deforestation
• How do farm animals contribute to methane emissions?

  They produce methane during digestion
• What is a significant consequence of global warming?

  Increased frequency of extreme weather events
• What does climate change refer to?

  Effects of global warming on climate
• What causes sea levels to rise due to global warming?

  Melting ice and thermal expansion of water
• What impact does climate change have on biodiversity?

  It likely causes a dramatic fall in biodiversity
• What are the two main reasons for rising carbon dioxide levels?

  • Burning fossil fuels
  • Deforestation reducing photosynthesis
• What are the two main reasons for increasing methane levels?

  • Methane production by farm animals
  • Decomposition of waste releasing methane
• What are the consequences of global warming on weather patterns?

  • Increased frequency of droughts
  • More severe hurricanes
  • More intense floods
• What are the two reasons for sea level rise due to global warming?

  1. Melting ice flowing into oceans
  2. Thermal expansion of warming ocean water
• How does climate change affect wild organisms?

  • Changes in temperature and rainfall patterns
  • Some species may not survive or adapt
  • Potential for decreased biodiversity