Global warming

Definition

Global warming refers to the long-term increase in Earth's average surface temperature due to human activities, particularly the emission of greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide and methane. This phenomenon is closely linked to climate change and has significant implications for environmental patterns, weather systems, and human societies.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Global temperatures have risen by about 1.2 degrees Celsius since the late 19th century, largely due to human activities like fossil fuel combustion.
2. The effects of global warming are widespread, leading to more frequent and intense weather events such as hurricanes, droughts, and heatwaves.
3. Melting ice caps and glaciers are a direct result of global warming, contributing to rising sea levels that threaten coastal communities worldwide.
4. Efforts to combat global warming include international agreements like the Paris Agreement, aiming to limit global temperature rise to well below 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels.
5. Mapping and analyzing climate data using various types of maps can help visualize the impacts of global warming and track changes over time.

Review Questions

• How does global warming affect weather patterns and environmental conditions across different regions?
  • Global warming impacts weather patterns by increasing the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events such as storms, droughts, and floods. Regions that were previously stable may experience drastic changes in their climate, disrupting local ecosystems and agricultural practices. For example, warmer temperatures can lead to increased evaporation rates, resulting in drought conditions in some areas while simultaneously causing heavier rainfall in others.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of various strategies proposed to mitigate the effects of global warming on a global scale.
  • Strategies to mitigate global warming include transitioning to renewable energy sources, enhancing energy efficiency, and implementing carbon pricing. The effectiveness of these strategies can vary significantly depending on political will, technological advancements, and public support. For instance, the adoption of solar and wind energy has proven effective in reducing carbon emissions in several countries. However, without global cooperation and commitment, these efforts may fall short of achieving necessary reductions in greenhouse gas emissions.
• Create a comprehensive action plan that local governments could implement to combat global warming within their communities.
  • A comprehensive action plan for local governments could include several key initiatives: first, promoting public transportation and electric vehicle usage to reduce emissions from personal vehicles; second, implementing building codes that require energy-efficient designs; third, enhancing green spaces through urban forestry programs to absorb CO2; fourth, fostering community education programs about sustainable practices; and lastly, establishing partnerships with local businesses to promote eco-friendly products. By taking these steps, local governments can significantly contribute to the fight against global warming while engaging citizens in sustainability efforts.

Related terms

Greenhouse effect: The process by which certain gases in the Earth's atmosphere trap heat, preventing it from escaping back into space, thus warming the planet.

Climate change: A broader term that encompasses changes in temperature, precipitation, and other atmospheric conditions over time, largely driven by global warming.

Carbon footprint: The total amount of greenhouse gases emitted directly or indirectly by an individual, organization, or product throughout its lifecycle.