Climate and Environmental Changes

These flashcards cover key concepts related to climate changes, geological formations, and environmental impacts discussed in the lecture.

What was the global temperature during the Last Glacial Maximum (LGM)?

The global temperature was 6°C colder on average during the Last Glacial Maximum (24,000-18,000 years ago).

How much lower was sea level during the Last Glacial Maximum?

Sea level was 120 meters lower during the Last Glacial Maximum.

What percentage of land was covered by glaciers during the Last Glacial Maximum?

30% of land was covered by glaciers during the Last Glacial Maximum (compared to 10% today).

What is the primary distribution of glaciers today?

Glaciers are primarily found in Greenland, Antarctica, and the Arctic.

What is the typical climate in the Arctic Tundra?

Mean temperature: 0°C annually; 6 months below 0°C; Precipitation: <250 mm/year; Growing season: ~50 days/year.

What is the difference between a corrie glacier and a valley glacier?

A corrie glacier forms in a mountain hollow; a valley glacier flows through a valley, often cutting through existing topography.

What is the Sentinel Range?

The Sentinel Range is a part of the Antarctic Ice Sheet, an example of a large ice sheet (>50,000 km²).

What is a pingo, and where are they commonly found?

A pingo is a conical mound formed by expanding ice cores, typically found in the Mackenzie Delta, Canada.

How long does it take for a pingo to form?

A pingo takes 25 to 1000 years to form.

What are thermokarsts and how do they form?

Thermokarsts are uneven terrains formed when permafrost melts, often due to natural warming or human activities.

How much oil was spilled in the Exxon Valdez oil spill (1989)?

The Exxon Valdez oil spill released 40 million liters of oil.

How many birds were killed in the Exxon Valdez oil spill?

The Exxon Valdez oil spill killed 250,000 birds.

How many leaks occurred annually in the Trans-Alaskan Pipeline between 1970 and 2000?

The Trans-Alaskan Pipeline experienced 30-40 leaks per year between 1970 and 2000.

What fish species is threatened by overfishing in the Southern Ocean?

The Patagonian toothfish is threatened by overfishing in the Southern Ocean.

What is the consequence of krill depletion in the Southern Ocean?

Krill depletion in the Southern Ocean negatively affects species like penguins and whales, which depend on krill for food.