APES Unit 9

These flashcards cover essential topics on global change, including ozone depletion, greenhouse gases, climate change, and biodiversity threats, to help students prepare for the AP Environmental Science exam.

What is the primary cause of stratospheric ozone depletion?

Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and natural factors such as the melting of ice crystals in the atmosphere.

How does the stratospheric ozone layer benefit life on Earth?

It absorbs harmful UV radiation, preventing skin cancer and cataracts in humans.

What is the Montreal Protocol?

A global agreement established in 1987 to phase out the production of ozone-depleting substances like CFCs.

What are Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) used for?

HFCs are substitutes for CFCs that do not deplete the ozone layer but can be strong greenhouse gases.

What is greenhouse gas (GHG) global warming potential (GWP)?

A measure of how much a given molecule of gas contributes to warming the atmosphere relative to carbon dioxide over a specific timeframe.

Which greenhouse gas has the highest GWP?

Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) have the highest global warming potential.

What environmental issues can arise from an increase in greenhouse gases?

Rising sea levels, changes in disease vectors, population dynamics, and climate change.

What is ocean acidification?

The decrease in pH of the oceans primarily due to increased CO2 concentrations in the atmosphere.

How does ocean warming affect marine species?

It can cause habitat loss, metabolic and reproductive changes, and contribute to coral bleaching.

What is the impact of invasive species on biodiversity?

Invasive species can outcompete native species for resources, leading to declines or extinctions of local populations.

What effect does climate change have on ocean currents?

Climate change can slow or disrupt thermohaline circulation, affecting global climate and marine ecosystems.

What is the primary role of stratospheric ozone?

To absorb UV-C and much of UV-B radiation from the sun, protecting living organisms on Earth.

How does carbon dioxide contribute to the greenhouse effect?

Carbon dioxide traps heat in the atmosphere, preventing it from escaping back into space.

What factors contribute to species endangerment?

Habitat destruction, over-exploitation, invasive species, climate change, and limited habitat requirements.

What is HIPPCO?

An acronym describing the main factors that lead to biodiversity loss: Habitat destruction, Invasive species, Population growth, Pollution, Climate change, Over-exploitation.

What role do national parks and wildlife preserves play in biodiversity conservation?

They protect important habitats and promote species recovery and genetic diversity.

What is thermal expansion in relation to rising sea levels?

As ocean water warms, the molecules move apart, causing sea levels to rise.