Global warming

Definition

Global warming refers to the long-term increase in Earth's average surface temperature due to human activities, primarily the release of greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. This phenomenon is closely linked to climate change, as rising temperatures can lead to shifts in weather patterns, more extreme weather events, and changes in ecosystems. Understanding global warming is crucial for addressing its impacts on natural systems and human societies.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Global temperatures have risen by about 1.2°C since the late 19th century, with most of the increase occurring in recent decades.
2. The burning of fossil fuels for energy and transportation is the largest source of greenhouse gas emissions contributing to global warming.
3. Climate models predict that if current trends continue, global temperatures could rise by 1.5°C to 4.5°C by the end of the 21st century.
4. Melting polar ice caps and glaciers contribute to rising sea levels, which threaten coastal communities around the world.
5. Addressing global warming requires a combination of reducing emissions, transitioning to renewable energy sources, and enhancing carbon sequestration through practices like reforestation.

Review Questions

• How do greenhouse gases contribute to global warming and what are some common sources?
  • Greenhouse gases contribute to global warming by trapping heat in the atmosphere, creating a 'greenhouse effect' that leads to rising temperatures. Common sources include burning fossil fuels for electricity, heating, and transportation, as well as industrial processes and agricultural practices. The accumulation of these gases enhances the natural greenhouse effect, resulting in significant changes to Earth's climate system.
• Discuss the potential impacts of global warming on weather patterns and ecosystems.
  • Global warming can lead to more extreme weather events, including increased frequency and intensity of storms, droughts, and heatwaves. These changes in weather patterns can disrupt ecosystems, leading to habitat loss and species extinction. Additionally, warmer temperatures can alter migration patterns for animals and affect plant growth cycles, further impacting biodiversity and food security.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of current strategies aimed at mitigating global warming and suggest improvements.
  • Current strategies to mitigate global warming include reducing greenhouse gas emissions through renewable energy adoption, enhancing energy efficiency, and implementing carbon pricing mechanisms. While these efforts have shown some promise in slowing down temperature increases, improvements could involve stronger international agreements like an expanded Paris Agreement commitment from all nations, increased investment in green technology research, and broader public engagement to foster sustainable practices at the individual level. More emphasis on adaptation strategies for vulnerable communities could also improve resilience against climate impacts.

Related terms

greenhouse gases:

Gases in the atmosphere that trap heat, including carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), and nitrous oxide (N2O), which are primarily released through human activities like burning fossil fuels and deforestation.

climate change: Long-term alterations in temperature, precipitation, and other atmospheric conditions on Earth, largely driven by global warming and human-induced activities.

carbon footprint:

The total amount of greenhouse gases emitted directly or indirectly by an individual, organization, or product, typically expressed in units of carbon dioxide equivalents (CO2e).