Climate Change

Definition

Climate change refers to significant and lasting changes in the Earth's climate patterns, especially those related to temperature, precipitation, and weather events. It is largely driven by human activities, primarily the burning of fossil fuels, deforestation, and industrial processes that increase greenhouse gas concentrations in the atmosphere, affecting various branches of physical science like meteorology and environmental science.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Earth's average temperature has risen about 1.2 degrees Celsius since the late 19th century due to human-induced emissions.
2. Climate change leads to more extreme weather events like hurricanes, droughts, and floods, impacting human societies and natural ecosystems.
3. Ice sheets in Greenland and Antarctica are melting at an accelerated rate, contributing to rising sea levels.
4. Ocean acidification is a direct result of increased CO2 absorption by oceans, affecting marine life such as coral reefs.
5. Climate change affects biodiversity; many species are at risk of extinction as their habitats change or disappear.

Review Questions

• How does climate change influence weather patterns and what implications does this have for physical science?
  • Climate change significantly alters weather patterns by increasing the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events such as hurricanes and droughts. This influences physical science by prompting researchers to study atmospheric conditions more closely and develop models that predict future climate scenarios. Understanding these changes is crucial for preparing for potential impacts on agriculture, water resources, and human safety.
• Evaluate the role of greenhouse gases in climate change and their impact on the Earth's ecosystems.
  • Greenhouse gases play a critical role in climate change by trapping heat in the atmosphere, leading to global warming. This increase in temperature affects ecosystems worldwide; for instance, it can disrupt migration patterns of animals, alter plant growth cycles, and lead to habitat loss. The consequences are profound, influencing biodiversity and ecosystem services that humans depend on for food, clean air, and water.
• Assess the long-term consequences of climate change on global economies and propose strategies for mitigation.
  • The long-term consequences of climate change on global economies include increased costs from extreme weather damage, reduced agricultural productivity, and higher health care costs due to heat-related illnesses. To mitigate these impacts, strategies such as transitioning to renewable energy sources, enhancing energy efficiency, and implementing carbon pricing can be effective. By investing in sustainable practices and technologies, societies can not only reduce emissions but also create resilient economies that can adapt to changing climate conditions.

Related terms

Greenhouse Gases: Gases such as carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), and nitrous oxide (N2O) that trap heat in the atmosphere and contribute to the greenhouse effect.

Global Warming: The long-term rise in Earth's average surface temperature due to increased levels of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere.

Ecosystem Services: The benefits provided by ecosystems to humans, which can be affected by climate change, including pollination, clean water, and carbon storage.