Climate Change and Global Warming

These flashcards cover key concepts from the climate change and global warming lecture, including the greenhouse effect, the carbon cycle, and impacts of climate on infrastructure and ecosystems.

What is the net incoming solar radiation at the top of the atmosphere?

240 Watt per m².

What percentage of incoming solar radiation is reflected by the atmosphere and earth's surface?

Approximately 30%.

What is the primary effect of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere?

They absorb and re-emit infrared radiation, warming the Earth's surface and atmosphere.

What are Milankovitch cycles?

Variations in the Earth's orbit and axial tilt that affect solar radiation distribution and climate.

How much does water vapor contribute to the natural greenhouse effect?

It is responsible for most of the natural greenhouse effect.

What is the approximate lifetime of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere?

50 to 200 years.

What human activities significantly increase carbon dioxide levels?

Combustion of fossil fuels, cement production, and deforestation.

What are the indirect greenhouse gases mentioned?

Carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen oxides (NOx), and non-methane volatile organic compounds.

What is the global warming potential of methane (CH4) over 100 years?

23 times that of CO2.

What impacts does climate change have on ecosystems?

It can lead to species extinctions.

What is one outcome of rising sea levels due to climate change?

Increased flooding in coastal areas.

What is the potential impact of climate change on infrastructure?

Direct and indirect damage from temperature changes, increased rain, floods, and storms.

What can be said about the distribution of greenhouse gas emissions by sector?

Transportation fuels contribute 14.0%, industrial processes 16.8%, and power stations 21.3%.

What is the role of halocarbons in the atmosphere?

They are greenhouse gases that also contribute to stratospheric ozone depletion.

What is the significance of the Montreal Protocol?

An international agreement to phase out ozone-depleting substances.

How does the Earth's eccentricity change over time?

It changes from nearly circular to more elliptical.

What happens to the greenhouse gas emissions by country over time?

Countries' emissions can vary significantly and are often reported annually.

What does 'perihelion' refer to?

The point in the Earth's orbit that is closest to the Sun.

What percentage of global emissions in 2000 were from carbon dioxide?

72% of total emissions.

What are the consequences of changes in rainfall distribution?

Floods and droughts can occur as a result.