Global Warming

Definition

Global warming refers to the long-term increase in Earth's average surface temperature due to human activities, primarily the burning of fossil fuels, which leads to an increase in greenhouse gases in the atmosphere. This phenomenon has far-reaching effects on weather patterns, ecosystems, and sea levels, posing significant challenges for societies across the globe in the 21st century.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The average global temperature has increased by about 1.2 degrees Celsius since the late 19th century, largely due to human activities such as burning fossil fuels and deforestation.
2. Rising temperatures lead to more extreme weather events, including heatwaves, storms, and heavy rainfall, which can disrupt ecosystems and human livelihoods.
3. Melting ice caps and glaciers contribute to rising sea levels, which threaten coastal communities and ecosystems around the world.
4. Global warming is linked to biodiversity loss, as many species struggle to adapt to rapidly changing climates and habitats.
5. International agreements like the Paris Agreement aim to limit global temperature rise and mitigate the impacts of climate change by reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Review Questions

• How does global warming specifically impact weather patterns and what are some examples of these changes?
  • Global warming significantly alters weather patterns by increasing the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events. For example, rising temperatures can lead to more severe hurricanes and storms as warmer ocean waters provide additional energy. Additionally, regions may experience shifts in rainfall patterns, leading to droughts in some areas while causing flooding in others. These changes can disrupt agriculture, water supplies, and local economies.
• Discuss the role of international agreements like the Paris Agreement in addressing global warming and their effectiveness.
  • International agreements such as the Paris Agreement play a crucial role in coordinating global efforts to combat global warming by setting targets for reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The agreement aims to limit the global temperature rise to well below 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels. While it has been a significant step forward in uniting countries under a common goal, its effectiveness depends on individual countries' commitment to meet their pledges and enhance their climate actions over time.
• Evaluate the long-term implications of global warming on human societies and ecosystems if current trends continue unchecked.
  • If current trends of global warming continue unchecked, the long-term implications for human societies and ecosystems could be catastrophic. Coastal cities may face increased flooding and displacement due to rising sea levels, leading to millions of climate refugees. Ecosystems will likely experience heightened stress from habitat loss and shifting climate zones, resulting in further biodiversity loss. Agriculture could be severely affected as changing weather patterns disrupt food production. Overall, the fabric of society could be strained by economic challenges, health risks from pollution and heat-related illnesses, and increased conflicts over scarce resources.

Related terms

Greenhouse Effect: A natural process where certain gases in Earth's atmosphere trap heat, keeping the planet warm enough to sustain life; however, human activities have intensified this effect.

Climate Change:

A broader term that encompasses long-term changes in temperature, precipitation, and other atmospheric conditions on Earth, often linked to global warming.

Carbon Footprint: The total amount of greenhouse gases emitted directly or indirectly by an individual, organization, event, or product, often measured in equivalent tons of carbon dioxide.