Geogrophy Yr10

Glosery words

Climate Change

Climate change refers to long-term changes in average weather patterns, including temperature, rainfall and the frequency of extreme weather events. While climate has always changed naturally, current climate change is occurring more rapidly and is largely driven by human activities such as burning fossil fuels, deforestation and industrial processes that increase greenhouse gases in the atmosphere. • Example: Rising average temperatures in Australia have contributed to more frequent heatwaves and severe bushfires.

GreenHouse Effect

The greenhouse effect is the process by which gases in the Earth’s atmosphere trap heat from the Sun, preventing it from escaping back into space. This natural process keeps the planet warm enough to support life, however human activities have increased the concentration of greenhouse gases, intensifying the effect and leading to global warming. • Example: Carbon dioxide released from coal-fired power stations strengthens the greenhouse effect and increases global temperatures.

Global Warming

Global warming refers specifically to the long-term increase in the Earth’s average surface temperature. It is primarily caused by the enhanced greenhouse effect resulting from increased levels of greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide and methane in the atmosphere. • Example: The past decade has been the warmest on record globally, indicating ongoing global warming

Carbon Emission

Carbon emissions are the release of carbon dioxide and other carbon-based gases into the atmosphere, mainly through activities such as burning fossil fuels, land clearing and industrial production. These emissions contribute significantly to climate change by increasing the greenhouse effect. • Example: Transport emissions from cars and trucks are a major source of carbon emissions in Australia.

Mitigation

Mitigation refers to actions taken to reduce the causes of climate change, particularly by lowering greenhouse gas emissions or increasing the removal of these gases from the atmosphere. Mitigation aims to limit the severity of future climate change. • Example: Switching to renewable energy sources such as solar and wind power is an example of climate change mitigation.

Adaptation

Adaptation involves adjusting human activities and natural systems to reduce the negative impacts of climate change or take advantage of new conditions. Adaptation accepts that some climate change is unavoidable and focuses on managing its effects. • Example: Constructing flood barriers to protect coastal communities from rising sea levels is an example of adaptation.

Sustainability

Sustainability refers to the use and management of resources in a way that meets current needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. In Geography, sustainability involves balancing environmental protection, economic development and social wellbeing. • Example: Sustainable farming practices maintain soil health while continuing food production

Climate Vulnerability

Climate vulnerability describes how susceptible a population, place or ecosystem is to the impacts of climate change. Vulnerability is influenced by exposure to hazards, sensitivity to change and the ability to adapt. • Example: Low-lying Pacific Island nations are highly vulnerable to sea-level rise

Sea-Level Rise

Sea-level rise refers to the long-term increase in the average level of the world’s oceans, caused mainly by melting ice sheets and glaciers and the expansion of seawater as it warms. Sea-level rise poses serious risks to coastal communities and ecosystems. • Example: Rising sea levels threaten coastal infrastructure and wetlands in parts of northern Australia.

Extreme Weather Events

Extreme weather events are weather conditions that are significantly different from average patterns and include heatwaves, cyclones, floods and droughts. Climate change is increasing the frequency and intensity of many extreme weather events. • Example: More intense rainfall events have increased flooding in parts of eastern Australia.