Greenhouse Effect and Global Warming

Flashcards covering key concepts related to the greenhouse effect and global warming.

What is the Greenhouse Effect?

The process by which the Earth's atmosphere warms up due to the presence of greenhouse gases that trap heat.

How do greenhouses work?

Greenhouses allow sunlight to enter while preventing heat from escaping, raising the temperature inside.

What is the Greenhouse Effect?

The process by which the Earth's atmosphere warms up due to the presence of greenhouse gases that trap heat.

How do greenhouses work?

Greenhouses allow sunlight to enter while preventing heat from escaping, raising the temperature inside.

What are greenhouse gases?

Trace gases in the Earth's atmosphere, such as carbon dioxide, water vapor, methane, and ozone, that absorb infrared radiation.

What percentage of carbon dioxide was present before 1750?

About 0.028 percent or 280 parts per million (ppm) by volume.

What has been the trend of carbon dioxide levels from 2000-2009?

Carbon dioxide levels rose by 2.0 ppm per year.

What is global warming?

The increasing temperature phenomenon due to more heat being trapped by greenhouse gases.

What activities contribute to the increase of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere?

Burning fossil fuels, deforestation, and waste decomposition contribute to increased carbon dioxide levels.

What are CFCs?

Chlorofluorocarbons, used as propellants in spray cans and refrigerants, which are also greenhouse gases.

What natural processes protect life on Earth?

Natural processes, such as the greenhouse effect, maintain suitable temperatures for living organisms.

What are the potential impacts of global warming?

Melting polar ice caps, flooding in low-lying areas, reduced biodiversity, and stronger weather phenomena.