Global warming refers to the long-term increase in Earth's average temperature due to human activities such as burning fossil fuels, deforestation, and industrial processes. It leads to various environmental changes, including rising sea levels, extreme weather events, and ecosystem disruptions.
Think of Earth as a giant oven that is slowly heating up due to human activities. Just like how an oven's temperature affects everything inside it, global warming impacts our planet's climate system and all the living organisms that depend on it.
Climate Change: The long-term alteration of Earth's climate patterns caused by various factors, including natural processes and human activities.
Greenhouse Effect: The process by which certain gases in the atmosphere trap heat radiated from Earth's surface and prevent it from escaping into space.
Carbon Footprint: The total amount of greenhouse gases (e.g., carbon dioxide) produced directly or indirectly by an individual, organization, product, or event.
What scale would be most appropriate to study the impact of global warming on polar ice caps?
In considering global warming at global versus local scale of analysis, what might be the difference in perspective?
How could cartographers use GIS technology to help mitigate global warming's impact on coastal communities?
Which scale of analysis is most appropriate for understanding the environmental impact of global warming on island nations?
Study guides for the entire semester
200k practice questions
Glossary of 50k key terms - memorize important vocab
© 2024 Fiveable Inc. All rights reserved.
AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.