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 a significant driver of climate change, as rising temperatures can lead to severe weather patterns, melting ice caps, and rising sea levels, which pose serious risks to ecosystems and human societies worldwide.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Since the late 19th century, the Earth's average surface temperature has increased by about 1.2 degrees Celsius (2.2 degrees Fahrenheit), primarily due to increased greenhouse gas emissions from human activities.
2. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) warns that if global warming continues at its current pace, it could exceed 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels by as early as 2030.
3. Global warming contributes to extreme weather events like hurricanes, droughts, and floods, which have become more frequent and intense in recent years.
4. Melting glaciers and polar ice caps due to global warming are contributing to rising sea levels, threatening coastal communities and ecosystems around the world.
5. Mitigating global warming requires international cooperation and commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions through policies such as renewable energy adoption and improved energy efficiency.

Review Questions

• How does global warming impact weather patterns and what are some specific examples?
  • Global warming significantly alters weather patterns by increasing the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events. For instance, warmer temperatures lead to more intense hurricanes due to increased ocean heat. Similarly, prolonged droughts and heavier rainfall can occur because higher temperatures disrupt normal precipitation patterns. These changes result in severe impacts on agriculture, infrastructure, and ecosystems.
• Discuss the role of greenhouse gases in global warming and identify key sources of these emissions.
  • Greenhouse gases play a critical role in global warming by trapping heat in the atmosphere, leading to an increase in Earth's average temperature. Key sources of these emissions include fossil fuel combustion for energy production, transportation, industrial processes, and deforestation. Carbon dioxide from burning coal and gasoline is the most significant contributor, while methane emissions from agriculture and landfills also have a substantial impact due to their higher heat-trapping potential.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of international agreements in combating global warming and suggest improvements for future efforts.
  • International agreements like the Paris Agreement have been somewhat effective in raising awareness and encouraging countries to commit to reducing greenhouse gas emissions. However, many countries struggle to meet their targets due to economic pressures and political challenges. To improve future efforts, stronger enforcement mechanisms could be established, along with financial support for developing nations to adopt clean technologies. Additionally, increasing public awareness and engagement could drive more substantial action at all levels of society.

Related terms

greenhouse gases: Gases that trap heat in the atmosphere, including carbon dioxide, methane, nitrous oxide, and water vapor, contributing to the greenhouse effect.

climate change: A broader term that encompasses global warming and other changes in climate patterns over time, driven by both natural processes and human activities.

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