Climate Change Overview

Which of the following is a consequence of rising temperatures due to climate change?

What has been the main cause of climate change since the 1800s?

How can increased water vapor in the air affect local weather patterns?

What is one effect of the melting of snow and ice due to climate change?

Which statement about climate change is accurate?

¿Cuáles son las principales causas del aumento del nivel del mar?

¿Qué proyección se hace para el aumento del nivel del mar para el año 2100?

El aumento de las temperaturas no afecta la ocurrencia de sequías.

¿Cuáles son algunas de las consecuencias de los eventos climáticos extremos?

¿Qué riesgos para la salud humana están asociados con el cambio climático?

¿Cuál es un impacto del cambio climático sobre la biodiversidad?

El deterioro de la calidad del aire está relacionado con el cambio climático.

Climate Change

Climate change refers to the long-term average of temperature, humidity, and rain across a region.
It refers to long-term changes in average weather patterns.
Human (anthropogenic) activity has been the main cause of climate change since the 1800s.
A rise in temperature leads to melting snow and ice, rising sea levels, habitat loss for polar species, and changes to fish populations.
More water vapor in the air leads to several rain floods and evaporation reducing surface water (solids dry out).

Sea Level Rise

Caused by melting ice sheets and glaciers, and thermal expansion of seawater.
Projected to increase global sea levels by 0.3 to 2.5 meters by 2100.
Impacts include coastal flooding and erosion, loss of habitat for plants, animals, and humans, and increased salinity of freshwater sources.

Extreme Weather Events

Increased frequency and intensity of storms, hurricanes, droughts, and heatwaves.
Higher rainfall leads to flooding; increased temperatures can lead to severe droughts.
Consequences include damage to infrastructure and ecosystems, economic losses in various sectors, and displacement of communities and increased migration.

Biodiversity Loss

Changing climates disrupt habitats and species' life cycles, leading to habitat loss.
Extinction rates are rising; many species unable to adapt quickly enough.
Impacts include disruption of ecosystem services (pollination, water purification) and loss of genetic diversity, affecting resilience against diseases.

Human Health Risks

Increased heatwaves relate to higher incidences of heat-related illnesses.
Altered ecosystems lead to a rise in vector-borne diseases (e.g., malaria, dengue).
Air quality deterioration associated with pollution and allergens increases respiratory issues.
Mental health concerns resulting from extreme weather events and displacement.

This quiz covers the fundamental concepts of climate change, including its definition, causes, and effects. Learn about how human activities since the 1800s have contributed to rising temperatures and changing weather patterns. Explore the implications of these changes on ecosystems and water sources.