Climate Change in the Northeastern U.S.

This collection of flashcards covers key concepts related to climate change, its effects in the Northeastern U.S., and potential mitigation strategies.

What are some past changes in global climate?

Increased annual temperatures, glacial retreat, and shifts in species distribution.

What is projected for climate in the Northeastern U.S.?

Climate warming, increased precipitation, displaced species, and more extreme weather events.

What was the extent of glaciers during the last ice age in the Northeastern U.S.?

The Northeastern U.S. was covered in glaciers during the last ice age.

Why is pollen used to study past climate change?

Pollen indicates species composition and is preserved in lake sediment.

When did glaciers begin to recede in the Northeastern U.S.?

Glaciers began to recede approximately 12,000 to 18,000 years ago.

What does the migration route of tree species over the last 18,000 years indicate?

Different tree species migrated north as the Earth warmed.

How do future migration routes for species depend on climate?

Species migration will be influenced by predicted future climate conditions.

What notable temperature trends have been observed globally?

Global temperatures have been rising since the late 19th century.

What is the temperature anomaly for the Northeastern U.S. based on historical data?

Temperature anomalies indicate regional warming, verifying climate change impacts.

What is the primary source of CO2 emissions in the Northeastern U.S.?

Transportation accounts for 35% of CO2 emissions.

How much has fossil fuel CO2 emissions changed from 2000 to 2020?

Fossil fuel CO2 emissions increased by an average of 1.9% per year.

What does RCP stand for in climatic scenarios?

Representative Concentration Pathways.

What do the RCP2.6 and RCP8.5 scenarios predict?

RCP2.6 predicts low emissions, while RCP8.5 predicts high emissions.

How have winter temperatures in the Northeastern U.S. changed since 1900?

Winter temperatures have increased significantly, impacting snowpack levels.

What is the climate projection for the Northeastern U.S. by 2100?

Projected temperature increases of 3.5-12.5°F depending on emissions scenarios.

What is an expected impact of climate change on precipitation patterns?

Increased extreme rain events are expected, especially in winter.

What effect does reduced snowpack have on soil conditions?

It increases soil frost and reduces tree growth and nutrient uptake.

What correlation exists between temperature and hospital visits?

Number of extreme heat days positively correlates with heat-related hospital visits.

What did the Blue Hill Observatory data show regarding temperature?

Air temperatures in Massachusetts have increased significantly since 1900.

How can climate change affect species distribution?

Climate change may push some species to migrate or adapt to new habitats.

What is the recommended action for reducing greenhouse gas emissions?

Increasing the use of renewable energy sources is essential.

What role do international treaties play in climate action?

They establish frameworks for countries to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

What renewable energy initiatives was Massachusetts pursuing as of 2021?

Massachusetts aimed for net-zero emissions by 2050 through various laws.

What percentage of CO2 emissions in the Northeastern U.S. is from the electric power sector?

Electric power generation accounts for approximately 30% of CO2 emissions.

What are the long-term effects of warmer winters projected for the Northeast?

Warmer winters may result in reduced snow cover and changes in ecosystems.

What impact could increased temperatures have on tree growth?

Temperature increases can enhance growth but may be offset by other stressors.

What evidence is there for changing freeze and thaw dates?

Pond freeze and thaw dates have shifted earlier and later respectively over decades.

Why might researchers prefer lake sediments over forest soils for pollen sampling?

Lake sediments provide a complete historical record of pollen deposition.

What is the estimated rise in annual temperatures since 1970?

Annual temperatures have risen approximately 1.5°F since 1970.

What trend has been observed in precipitation in Massachusetts?

Annual rates of precipitation have notably increased.

What is projected for soil moisture as climate change progresses?

Soil moisture is likely to decrease due to increased evaporation during droughts.

How might climate change impact extreme weather events?

An increase in the frequency and intensity of extremities like storms is expected.

What influences the carbon storage capacity of forests?

Tree species, growth rates, and soil conditions affect carbon storage.

How is carbon sequestration by trees influenced by winter snow conditions?

Snowpack affects soil temperatures and root health, impacting tree growth.

What are the implications of increasing CO2 emissions?

Higher CO2 levels can exacerbate climate change impacts on ecosystems.

What can individuals and communities do to mitigate climate change?

Adopt sustainable practices and support local renewable energy projects.

What is the relationship between extreme heat days and public health issues?

Increased extreme heat days correlate with rising heat-related health crises.

What is the expected future of marine species due to warming waters?

Some marine species are expected to migrate northward as waters warm.

What experimental evidence exists for how reduced snowpack impacts ecosystems?

Research shows reduced snowpack leads to lower tree growth and biodiversity.

What does climate change mean for agricultural practices?

Climate change may disrupt growing seasons and crop yields.