EVS powerpoint flashcards

What are GCC models used for?

To forecast future climate conditions using 3D grids of atmospheric and oceanic variables like temperature, pressure, and air flow.

What is the difference between a forecast and a prediction in GCC models?

Forecasts are projections based on current data; predictions imply certainty, which climate models cannot guarantee due to variable changes.

What is a feedback loop in climate systems?

A process where outputs of a system are fed back as inputs, causing changes—either amplifying (+ve) or stabilizing (-ve).

Give an example of positive feedback in climate change.

Warming leads to ice melt, reducing albedo, which causes further warming.

Give an example of negative feedback in climate change.

Warming causes more cloud formation, which reflects sunlight and reduces temperature.

What is albedo?

The fraction of sunlight reflected by a surface; ice has high albedo, soil has low.

What is the projected temperature increase by 2100?

1.5 to 4.5°C above 2000 levels.

Even if GHG levels remained constant since 2000, how much warming would still occur?

About 0.1°C per decade.

What are the key uncertainties in GCC models?

Natural variability, future GHG emissions, deforestation, and feedback complexities.

Who is primarily responsible for climate change historically?

Developed nations, due to early and heavy industrialization.

What is the IPCC and its role?

Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change; summarizes scientific knowledge on climate change based on peer-reviewed research.

What was the goal of the Kyoto Protocol?

To reduce GHG emissions by 5.2% below 1990 levels by 2012.

What is cap-and-trade?

A system where a cap is set on emissions, and companies can trade emission allowances.

What was a key outcome of COP 21 in Paris (2015)?

A legally binding treaty with emission reduction commitments from nearly 200 countries.

What are the two main strategies to address climate change?

1) Reduce GHG emissions (pollution prevention), 2) Mitigate effects (clean-up strategies).

What is geoengineering?

Technological interventions to reflect sunlight or remove CO₂ from the atmosphere.

What does 350.org advocate?

A return to 350 ppm CO₂ to stabilize climate systems.

What percentage of scientists agree that climate change is human-caused?

97%.

What is the significance of 450 ppm CO₂?

Considered by many scientists as a critical threshold to avoid dangerous climate impacts.