Global Warming and Climate Change

This set of flashcards includes key terms and definitions related to global warming, climate change, and their impacts.

Global Warming

The dramatic increase in the Earth's temperatures primarily since 1950.

Greenhouse Effect

A natural atmospheric process where greenhouse gases trap heat released from the Earth's surface, keeping the planet warm.

Greenhouse Gases

Gases such as methane, carbon dioxide, and nitrous oxide that trap heat in the atmosphere.

Deforestation

The clearing of forests which reduces the absorption of CO₂ by trees, contributing to climate change.

Methane (CH₄)

A potent greenhouse gas released during livestock digestion and rice paddies.

Nitrous Oxide (N₂O)

A greenhouse gas that comes from nitrogen-based fertilizers.

Urbanization

The process of more people living in cities; contributes to increased greenhouse gas emissions.

Carbon Capture

The process of removing carbon dioxide from waste gases and storing it to reduce atmospheric emissions.

Slash-and-Burn

A method of deforestation involving cutting down and burning trees to clear land.

Sea Level Rise

An increase in the level of the world's oceans due to warming temperatures and melting ice caps.

Ecosystem Change

A shift in the location or type of biomes due to changing climate conditions, threatening biodiversity.

Climate Adaptation

Adjusting practices, processes, and structures to minimize damage due to climate change.

Climate Mitigation

Efforts to reduce or prevent the emission of greenhouse gases.

Kyoto Protocol

An international treaty committing its parties to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Paris Agreement

A global agreement aimed at limiting global warming to below 2°C.

Long-wave Radiation

Heat emitted by the Earth that is trapped by greenhouse gases in the atmosphere.

Short-wave Radiation

Solar energy transmitted from the Sun through the Earth's atmosphere.

Food Insecurity

A situation in which people don’t have sufficient access to food due to climate impacts.

Coral Bleaching

The process where corals lose their color and vitality due to stressed environmental conditions.

Aquaculture

The farming of fish, shellfish, and other aquatic plants in controlled environments.