Scientific Evidence + Models + Uncertainty

What is a climate model?

A computer-based representation of the climate system used to investigate and predict changes.

Why do scientists use climate models?

To explore how climate responds to different factors and emission scenarios.

Why do climate predictions contain uncertainty?

Future emissions, natural variability and some climate processes cannot be predicted exactly.

Does uncertainty mean climate change is not occurring?

No, multiple independent observations show that the climate is warming.

What is the scientific consensus on recent global warming?

Human activities, particularly greenhouse gas emissions, are the dominant cause of recent warming.

Why is peer review important in climate science?

Other experts evaluate research methods, evidence and conclusions.

Why is reproducibility important in scientific research?

Independent researchers can check whether findings are reliable.

What is a correlation?

A relationship in which two variables change together.

Does correlation alone prove causation?

No, further evidence and a causal explanation are required.

Why is the greenhouse effect considered a scientifically supported mechanism?

It is supported by physical measurements, laboratory evidence and atmospheric observations.

Why can individual weather events not prove or disprove global warming?

Weather is short-term, while climate trends are measured over long periods.

Why do scientists compare multiple sources of climate evidence?

Independent evidence can strengthen confidence in conclusions.

What is a scientific hypothesis?

A testable proposed explanation for an observation.

What is a scientific theory?

A well-supported explanation based on substantial evidence.

Why may climate predictions change as research improves?

New evidence and better models can refine predictions.

What is the difference between uncertainty and lack of evidence?

Uncertainty concerns how precisely outcomes are known, not necessarily whether the underlying effect exists.