bio exam 2 part 2 wodika

climate

The long-term average of atmospheric conditions.

weather

Local atmospheric conditions over a short period of time.

climate change

Any substantial change in climate that lasts for an extended period of time (decades or more).

global warming

An increase in Earth’s average temperature.

phenology

The study of cyclic life events such as plant flowering and animal migration and how these are influenced by climate and seasonal changes.

greenhouse effect

The natural process by which heat from sunlight is radiated from Earth’s surface and trapped by gases in the atmosphere, helping to maintain Earth at a temperature that can support life.

greenhouse gasses

Any of the gases in Earth’s atmosphere that absorb heat radiated from Earth’s surface and contribute to the greenhouse effect—for example, carbon dioxide and methane.

carbon cycle

The movement of carbon atoms through the ecosystem as they cycle between organic molecules and inorganic CO2

fossil fuels

A carbon-rich energy source, such as coal, petroleum, or natural gas, formed from the compressed, fossilized remains of once-living organisms.

carbon footprint

A measure of the total greenhouse gases produced by human activities.

anthropocene

The geological period of the present day, dominated by human activities.

nonrenewable resources

Natural resources that are not replenished at the same speed at which they are consumed and are therefore considered finite; fossil fuels are an example.r

renewable resources

Natural resources that do not run out or can be replenished easily; solar power, wind power, and sustainably harvested timber are examples.

carbon capture

Using technology to remove CO2 from the atmosphere.