Semester 2 astronomy study guide

Climate change

A significant and lasting change in the global climate and weather patterns.

Greenhouse effect

The process by which certain gases trap heat in the Earth's atmosphere.

Greenhouse gases

Gases that contribute to the greenhouse effect by absorbing infrared radiation.

Examples of greenhouse gases

Carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), nitrous oxide (N2O), and water vapor.

Characteristics of greenhouse gases

They are transparent to incoming solar radiation but opaque to outgoing infrared radiation.

Earth vs. Mercury

Earth has a suitable atmosphere for life, while Mercury lacks a significant atmosphere.

Radiation that goes through Earth's atmosphere

Visible light and some infrared radiation.

Radiation that gets trapped by Earth

Infrared radiation.

Radiation that Earth gives off

Infrared radiation.

Carbon Cycle

The natural process by which carbon is exchanged among the atmosphere, land, water, and organisms.

Three cycles involved in the Carbon Cycle

Photosynthesis, respiration, and decomposition.

Length of time for each Carbon cycle

Varies; photosynthesis happens fast, while geological processes can take thousands of years.

Comparison of Venus, Mars, and Earth

Venus has a thick CO2 atmosphere, Mars has a thin atmosphere, and Earth has a balanced carbon cycle.

Jovian Planet characteristics

Large, gaseous planets that have thick atmospheres and many moons.

How to 'lock things in' on a spreadsheet

Using the F4 key or dollar signs ($) to make references absolute.

Weight change on other planets

Weight changes due to differences in gravitational pull on other celestial bodies.

Force equation for weight change

Weight is a function of mass and gravity (W = mg), where gravity varies by planet.

Jupiter’s moons order

The four largest moons, known as the Galilean moons, are Io, Europa, Ganymede, and Callisto.

Jupiter's moons resemblance

Jupiter's moons may resemble the inner structure of the planets in our solar system.

Radiation types

Includes gamma rays, X-rays, ultraviolet, visible light, infrared, microwave, and radio waves.

Importance of the greenhouse effect

It keeps the Earth's surface warm enough to sustain life.

Impact of climate change on Earth

Leads to global warming, extreme weather, and rising sea levels.

Significance of carbon cycle

Essential for regulating Earth's climate and supporting life.

Jovian planets

Gas giants including Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune.

Earth's atmosphere

A mixture of gases including nitrogen, oxygen, and smaller amounts of other gases.

Weight definition

The force exerted by gravity on an object.

Role of sunlight in Earth's climate

Provides energy that drives weather patterns and photosynthesis.