6 Questions
What is the primary effect of an increase in atmospheric concentration of greenhouse gases?
It traps more heat, leading to global warming
Which of the following human activities contributes to global warming by releasing methane?
Agriculture, especially rice cultivation and livestock production
What is the effect of volcanic eruptions on global temperatures?
They release sulfur dioxide, which reflects sunlight and cools the planet
What is the result of melting Arctic ice?
It reduces Earth's albedo, amplifying warming
What is the effect of thawing permafrost on global warming?
It releases methane, a potent GHG
What is the effect of changes in Earth's orbit and axis on global temperatures?
It affects global temperatures, but the impact varies
Study Notes
Causes of Global Warming
Greenhouse Gases
- Increase in atmospheric concentration of greenhouse gases (GHGs) trap more heat, leading to global warming
- Main GHGs:
- Carbon dioxide (CO2)
- Methane (CH4)
- Nitrous oxide (N2O)
- Ozone (O3)
- Fluorinated gases (F-gases)
Human Activities Contributing to Global Warming
- Burning of fossil fuels (coal, oil, gas) for energy releases large amounts of CO2
- Deforestation and land-use changes lead to loss of carbon sinks
- Agriculture, especially rice cultivation and livestock production, release methane and N2O
- Industrial processes, transportation, and waste management also emit GHGs
Natural Factors
- Volcanic eruptions release sulfur dioxide, which reflects sunlight and cools the planet
- Changes in Earth's orbit and axis affect global temperatures
- Variations in solar radiation influence global temperatures
Feedback Loops
- Melting Arctic ice reduces Earth's albedo, amplifying warming
- Thawing permafrost releases methane, a potent GHG
- Warmer oceans release CO2, reinforcing warming
Note: These notes provide a concise overview of the causes of global warming. They are not exhaustive, but cover the main points.
Test your knowledge of the causes of global warming, including greenhouse gases, human activities, natural factors, and feedback loops. Learn about the main contributors to climate change and their effects on the planet.
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