Global Warming Basics

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Questions and Answers

What is the primary function of gases like CO2 and CFCs in the atmosphere?

To reflect sunlight

To trap infrared radiation (correct)

To absorb infrared radiation

To produce ozone

What is global warming, in simple terms?

A natural process that cools the Earth

An increase in the average temperature of the Earth's atmosphere (correct)

A human-caused phenomenon that raises global temperatures

A type of storm that occurs during summer

What is the purpose of the 'Top Five Things to Know' list?

To entertain viewers with global warming trivia

To present a balanced view of global warming effects

To compile key points about global warming (correct)

To provide an overview of global warming causes

Why is it challenging to form an opinion about global warming?

Because there are conflicting opinions from celebrities and experts Signup and view all the answers

What is the term 'global warming' often used to describe?

A range of climate-related problems Signup and view all the answers

What is the main function of the greenhouse effect in the Earth's atmosphere?

To regulate the extreme temperature fluctuations Signup and view all the answers

What is the result of an increase in the concentration of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere?

The enhanced greenhouse effect Signup and view all the answers

What is the approximate concentration of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere during pre-Industrial Revolution times?

280 ppm Signup and view all the answers

What is the main difference between the natural and enhanced greenhouse effects?

The concentration of greenhouse gases Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary cause of the fluctuation in the Earth's average temperature over time?

Variations in the concentration of greenhouse gases Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary factor behind the warming cycle in the Earth's climate history?

Increase in greenhouse gases Signup and view all the answers

What is a natural cause of the cycling of carbon dioxide concentrations in the atmosphere?

Carbon dioxide given off from volcanoes Signup and view all the answers

What is a byproduct of trash decomposition that can be captured and sold?

Methane gas Signup and view all the answers

Why are fossil fuels the most popular energy source?

They are the least expensive to use Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary human contribution to greenhouse gas concentrations?

Burning of fossil fuels Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Global Warming Background

The term "global warming" refers to an increase in the average temperature of the Earth's atmosphere near its surface, either from natural or human causes, which may result in a change in global climate patterns.

Greenhouse Effect

The greenhouse effect is the normal trapping of the Earth's heat in the lower atmosphere, due to the conversion of light into heat as it strikes the Earth's surface.
This natural process helps regulate extreme temperature fluctuations.

Greenhouse Gases

Gases present in the atmosphere, including carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), water vapor, nitrous oxide (N20), and CFCs, trap heat and contribute to the greenhouse effect.
The concentration of these gases can change, leading to an enhanced greenhouse effect.

Increasing CO2 Concentration

The concentration of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere has risen from 315 parts per million (ppm) in 1960 to 391 ppm in October 2012, compared to the estimated pre-Industrial Revolution level of 280 ppm.

Earth's Temperature Fluctuations

The average global temperature fluctuates over time, with natural fluctuations occurring throughout history.
The Earth's temperature has been warmer in the past, with geologic evidence of an ice age in the upper Midwest of the United States.

Causes of Global Warming

Global warming can have natural or human causes, including:
- Natural causes: volcanoes, animal waste, and changes in the sun's intensity.
- Human causes: combustion of fossil fuels, increased animal waste production from livestock, and decomposition of trash.

Human Contributions

Human actions, such as burning fossil fuels and decomposition of trash, are primary contributing factors to increased greenhouse gas concentrations, specifically carbon dioxide and methane.

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Description

Get ready to test your knowledge about global warming, its causes, effects, and who's to blame. From super storms to melting glaciers, this quiz will cover it all.