The Greenhouse Effect and Climate Change

These flashcards cover key concepts related to the greenhouse effect and climate change, including definitions, differences, impacts, and responses.

What is the difference between weather and climate?

Weather is the condition of the atmosphere in one location for a short period, while climate refers to generalized weather conditions over a long period.

What is climate change?

Climate change includes shifts in temperature, precipitation patterns, air humidity, and circulation, affecting local and global scales.

What has been the increase in average surface temperatures in the past 100 years?

Average surface temperatures have increased by 0.9°C, with most of this increase occurring since 1975.

What do greenhouse gases do?

They trap heat in the atmosphere, warming it by absorbing and re-emitting long wavelength radiation.

What are the main anthropogenic sources of carbon dioxide?

Fossil fuel burning and deforestation are the main sources of increased atmospheric CO2.

What role do CFCs play in climate change?

CFCs are greenhouse gases that trap heat and contribute to ozone layer depletion.

What are fossil fuels?

Fossil fuels are the fossilized remains of plants and animals with a high concentration of carbon.

How have CO2 levels changed since the 1700s?

CO2 levels have risen from 280 ppm in the 1700s to over 400 ppm, the highest in possibly 20 million years.

What are some natural factors that contribute to climate variability?

Solar output, ocean absorption, Milankovitch cycles, and ocean circulation all contribute to natural climate variability.

What are the expected effects of global climate change?

Effects include glacier melting, sea-level rise, changes in precipitation patterns, and more severe weather.

What is mitigation in the context of climate change?

Mitigation involves actions to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and lessens climate change severity.

What is adaptation in response to climate change?

Adaptation includes strategies to minimize impacts of climate change, such as coping with droughts and changing agricultural practices.

What does the IPCC stand for?

IPCC stands for the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, focusing on climate science assessment.

What is the Kyoto Protocol?

The Kyoto Protocol is a treaty aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions to 1990 levels by 2000.

What was a significant outcome of the Paris Accord?

The Paris Accord is a 2015 agreement for emissions reductions, though the U.S. withdrew its participation in 2017.

What are renewable energy sources?

Renewable energy sources are energy forms that reduce air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions.

What type of jobs are associated with renewable energy?

Green-collar jobs include design, installation, maintenance, and management of renewable energy technologies.