Global warming

Definition

Global warming refers to the long-term increase in Earth's average surface temperature due to human activities, particularly the release of greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide and methane into the atmosphere. This phenomenon is a significant aspect of climate change, impacting weather patterns, sea levels, and ecosystems worldwide.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Since the late 19th century, global average temperatures have risen significantly, with a notable acceleration since the 1970s due to increased industrialization and fossil fuel use.
2. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) reports that global temperatures could rise by 1.5°C to 2°C above pre-industrial levels by the end of the century if current trends continue.
3. Melting ice caps and glaciers are direct consequences of global warming, leading to rising sea levels that threaten coastal communities and ecosystems.
4. Extreme weather events, such as hurricanes, droughts, and heatwaves, have become more frequent and intense as a result of rising global temperatures.
5. Mitigation strategies like reducing fossil fuel use, increasing energy efficiency, and transitioning to renewable energy sources are critical for combating global warming.

Review Questions

• How does global warming influence weather patterns and extreme weather events around the world?
  • Global warming leads to changes in atmospheric conditions that can alter weather patterns and increase the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events. For instance, warmer temperatures can enhance evaporation rates, leading to heavier rainfall in some regions while causing droughts in others. Additionally, warmer oceans can fuel more powerful hurricanes and storms, resulting in greater damage to coastal areas.
• Discuss the implications of rising sea levels due to global warming for coastal populations and ecosystems.
  • Rising sea levels caused by global warming threaten coastal populations by increasing the risk of flooding, erosion, and loss of land. This can displace communities and disrupt livelihoods dependent on coastal resources. Furthermore, ecosystems such as wetlands and mangroves are also at risk as they struggle to adapt to changing water levels, which can lead to loss of biodiversity and essential habitats for various species.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of current mitigation strategies aimed at addressing global warming and their potential long-term impacts on society.
  • Current mitigation strategies such as reducing greenhouse gas emissions through transitioning to renewable energy sources and improving energy efficiency have shown promise in combating global warming. However, their effectiveness hinges on widespread adoption and international cooperation. If these strategies are implemented effectively, they could significantly reduce future temperature increases and foster sustainable development. The long-term impacts may include improved public health, economic resilience, and enhanced environmental protection, ultimately benefiting society as a whole.

Related terms

greenhouse effect: The process by which certain gases in Earth's atmosphere trap heat, preventing it from escaping into space and contributing to a warming climate.

climate change:

A broader term that encompasses global warming along with other changes in climate patterns, such as shifts in precipitation and extreme weather events.

carbon footprint:

The total amount of greenhouse gases emitted directly or indirectly by an individual, organization, event, or product, usually expressed in equivalent tons of carbon dioxide.