Greenhouse gases and climate change

What are greenhouse gases?

Greenhouse gases are gases in the Earth's atmosphere that trap heat, including carbon dioxide (CO₂), methane (CH₄), and water vapor (H₂O).

How do greenhouse gases contribute to the greenhouse effect?

Greenhouse gases absorb infrared radiation from the Earth's surface and re-radiate it back, trapping heat in the atmosphere.

What are the main greenhouse gases responsible for climate change?

The main greenhouse gases are carbon dioxide, methane, nitrous oxide, and water vapor.

How has human activity contributed to an increase in greenhouse gases?

Human activities like burning fossil fuels, deforestation, and industrial processes have increased the levels of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere.

What is the impact of increased greenhouse gases on global temperatures?

Increased greenhouse gases enhance the greenhouse effect, leading to a rise in global temperatures, a phenomenon known as global warming.

How does deforestation contribute to climate change?

Deforestation reduces the number of trees that absorb carbon dioxide, leading to higher CO₂ levels in the atmosphere.

What role do oceans play in regulating climate change?

Oceans absorb carbon dioxide and act as heat sinks, regulating temperature and storing excess heat from the atmosphere.

How does the melting of polar ice contribute to climate change?

The melting of polar ice reduces the Earth’s albedo, causing more heat to be absorbed by the oceans and accelerating global warming.

How does climate change affect weather patterns?

Climate change can lead to more extreme weather patterns, including heatwaves, storms, and flooding, due to changes in atmospheric circulation.

What is the difference between weather and climate?

Weather refers to short-term atmospheric conditions, while climate refers to long-term patterns of weather over a region.

How does methane contribute to climate change?

Methane is a potent greenhouse gas that traps heat more effectively than CO₂, and is released from agriculture, landfills, and fossil fuel extraction.

What is the Paris Agreement, and how does it relate to climate change?

The Paris Agreement is an international treaty aimed at limiting global temperature rise by reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

How does increasing carbon dioxide in the atmosphere affect the oceans?

Increased CO₂ leads to ocean acidification, which harms marine life, particularly organisms with calcium carbonate shells.

What are some potential effects of global warming on ecosystems?

Global warming can lead to habitat loss, species extinction, and changes in migration patterns.

How can we reduce greenhouse gas emissions to mitigate climate change?

Reducing emissions can be achieved by using renewable energy sources, improving energy efficiency, reducing waste, and protecting forests.