Questions and Answers
What climate condition occurs during El Niño?
warm water moving toward the coast of South America
Why is it commonly believed that carbon dioxide is responsible for global warming?
Carbon dioxide has a longer average lifetime in the atmosphere.
Which statement best describes the greenhouse effect?
It is a process by which greenhouse gases allow the sun's light to penetrate the atmosphere but stop the heat from escaping.
What are global wind patterns called?
Signup and view all the answers
What negative effect occurs when there is a decrease in air quality?
Signup and view all the answers
What major factors play a role in global warming?
Signup and view all the answers
What effects do wind patterns have on climate?
Signup and view all the answers
Which greenhouse gas has an average lifetime in the atmosphere of a few weeks to thousands of years and is the largest contributor to climate change?
Signup and view all the answers
Which greenhouse gas is produced by commercial refrigeration and air conditioning systems?
Signup and view all the answers
Which is a possible result of rising ocean temperatures caused by global warming?
Signup and view all the answers
According to some scientists, which is a cause of global warming?
Signup and view all the answers
What climate conditions occur during La Niña?
Signup and view all the answers
Which definition best describes global warming?
Signup and view all the answers
Study Notes
El Niño and Climate Conditions
- El Niño is characterized by warm water flowing toward the coast of South America.
- This phenomenon significantly impacts weather patterns, often leading to increased rainfall in some areas and drought in others.
Carbon Dioxide and Global Warming
- Carbon dioxide is a primary contributor to global warming due to its long average lifetime in the atmosphere.
- Its accumulation results from both natural processes and human activities.
Greenhouse Effect Explanation
- The greenhouse effect allows sunlight to enter the Earth's atmosphere, while preventing some of the heat from escaping back into space.
- This effect is crucial for maintaining the planet's temperature, but excess greenhouse gases can exacerbate warming.
Global Wind Patterns
- Global wind patterns, known as prevailing winds, affect climate by distributing heat and moisture around the planet.
- Changes in these patterns can influence local climate conditions, including precipitation levels.
Decreased Air Quality Consequences
- A decline in air quality can lead to increased incidence of illness, which in turn can negatively impact population health and growth.
Factors Contributing to Global Warming
- Global warming is influenced by a combination of natural factors (like volcanic activity) and human activities (such as fossil fuel combustion).
Impact of Wind Patterns on Climate
- Wind patterns significantly alter precipitation distribution in various regions, affecting climate and weather systems throughout the world.
Key Greenhouse Gases
- Carbon dioxide has a variable atmospheric lifespan, ranging from weeks to thousands of years, and is the largest contributor to climate change.
- Fluorinated gases, produced by commercial refrigeration and air conditioning systems, are also significant greenhouse gases.
Rising Ocean Temperatures
- Global warming contributes to rising ocean temperatures, which can lead to an increase in the strength and frequency of hurricanes and tropical storms.
Causes of Global Warming
- An increase in atmospheric carbon dioxide is a recognized driver of global warming, according to some scientific assessments.
La Niña Conditions
- La Niña is associated with stronger prevailing winds and an increase in hurricane activity, contrasting with the conditions seen during El Niño.
Definition of Global Warming
- Global warming is defined as a long-term increase in the Earth's average temperature, driven primarily by human-induced factors.
Studying That Suits You
Use AI to generate personalized quizzes and flashcards to suit your learning preferences.
Description
Test your knowledge on climate change with these flashcards covering key concepts such as El Niño, the greenhouse effect, and the role of carbon dioxide in global warming. Perfect for students and anyone interested in environmental science.
