Global Change Lecture Notes

These flashcards cover essential vocabulary and concepts related to global change, ozone depletion, greenhouse gases, and biodiversity.

Stratospheric Ozone Layer

A layer in the Earth's stratosphere that absorbs most of the sun's harmful ultraviolet radiation.

CFCs (Chlorofluorocarbons)

Anthropogenic chemicals used in refrigerants and aerosols that deplete the ozone layer.

UV Radiation

Ultraviolet radiation, a type of energy emitted by the sun that can cause skin cancer and cataracts.

Montreal Protocol

An international treaty designed to phase out the production of substances that deplete the ozone layer.

Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs)

Substitutes for CFCs that do not deplete the ozone layer but are potent greenhouse gases.

Greenhouse Effect

The warming of Earth's surface caused by gases that trap heat in the atmosphere.

Greenhouse Gases

Gases in Earth's atmosphere that trap heat, including carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide.

Global Warming Potential (GWP)

A measure of how much heat a greenhouse gas traps in the atmosphere over a specific time compared to carbon dioxide.

Ocean Acidification

The decrease in pH of the oceans due to the absorption of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.

Invasive Species

Non-native species that can disrupt local ecosystems and outcompete native species for resources.

Endangered Species

Species at risk of extinction due to habitat loss, invasive species, or other anthropogenic factors.

Thermal Expansion

The increase in volume of water as it warms, contributing to rising sea levels.

Biodiversity Loss

The decline in the number and variety of species in a given area, often caused by human activities.

Human Impact on Biodiversity

The effects of human activities such as habitat destruction, pollution, and climate change on native species and ecosystems.

Climate Change Mitigation Strategies

Approaches to reduce or prevent the long-term warming of the Earth from greenhouse gas emissions.