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 higher concentrations of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere. This rise in temperature is closely linked to the changes in Earth's energy balance, as increased greenhouse gas emissions enhance the greenhouse effect, trapping more heat. Understanding global warming is crucial for comprehending observed and projected climate changes, as it has profound impacts on weather patterns, ecosystems, and sea levels worldwide.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The average global temperature has risen about 1.2 degrees Celsius since the late 19th century due to human activities.
2. The primary greenhouse gases responsible for global warming include carbon dioxide (CO₂), methane (CH₄), and nitrous oxide (N₂O), which are released through activities like burning fossil fuels and deforestation.
3. Global warming is linked to extreme weather events such as hurricanes, droughts, and heatwaves, which are becoming more frequent and intense as temperatures rise.
4. The melting of polar ice caps and glaciers contributes to rising sea levels, which threaten coastal communities and ecosystems around the world.
5. International agreements like the Paris Agreement aim to limit global warming to well below 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels by reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Review Questions

• How does the enhancement of the greenhouse effect contribute to global warming?
  • The enhancement of the greenhouse effect occurs when human activities increase the concentration of greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. These gases trap more heat from the sun, preventing it from escaping back into space. As a result, Earth's surface temperature rises, leading to various climate changes such as altered weather patterns and increased frequency of extreme weather events.
• Discuss the relationship between global warming and observed changes in climate patterns over the past century.
  • Global warming is closely tied to observed changes in climate patterns over the past century. Increased temperatures have led to significant shifts in precipitation patterns, with some regions experiencing droughts while others face severe flooding. Additionally, ecosystems are being affected as species adapt or migrate to cope with these changes. These shifts highlight how global warming is not just a temperature issue but has wide-ranging impacts on our climate system.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of international efforts aimed at mitigating global warming and their potential impact on future climate change.
  • International efforts to mitigate global warming, such as the Paris Agreement, aim to unite countries in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and limiting global temperature rise. While these agreements represent significant steps toward addressing climate change, their effectiveness depends on countries meeting their commitments and transitioning to sustainable energy sources. The potential impact on future climate change could be substantial if nations cooperate effectively; however, failure to do so may result in severe consequences for ecosystems and human societies worldwide.

Related terms

Greenhouse Effect: A natural process where certain gases in Earth's atmosphere trap heat, preventing it from escaping back into space and thereby warming the planet.

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

Climate Change: Long-term alterations in temperature, precipitation, wind patterns, and other elements of the Earth's climate system, largely driven by human activity and natural processes.