Global warming

Definition

Global warming refers to the long-term increase in Earth's average surface temperature due to human activities, especially the burning of fossil fuels that release greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. This rise in temperature impacts atmospheric composition, alters weather patterns, and contributes to significant climate changes over time, influencing both the carbon cycle and Earth's climate systems.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Since the late 19th century, Earth's average surface temperature has increased by about 1.2 degrees Celsius (2.2 degrees Fahrenheit), largely attributed to human activities.
2. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) reports that if current trends continue, global temperatures could rise by 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels by as early as 2030.
3. Increased temperatures due to global warming are linked to more frequent and severe weather events such as hurricanes, droughts, and heatwaves.
4. The carbon cycle plays a crucial role in global warming as excessive carbon dioxide from burning fossil fuels disrupts the natural balance of carbon sinks and sources.
5. Efforts to mitigate global warming include transitioning to renewable energy sources, improving energy efficiency, and implementing carbon capture technologies.

Review Questions

• How does global warming affect the composition and structure of the atmosphere?
  • Global warming leads to an increase in greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide and methane in the atmosphere due to human activities such as fossil fuel combustion. This alteration in atmospheric composition enhances the greenhouse effect, trapping more heat and causing a rise in Earth's average temperature. As a result, this process not only changes temperature patterns but also affects cloud formation, precipitation rates, and overall atmospheric dynamics.
• What are some observable impacts of global warming on weather and climate patterns?
  • Global warming has led to noticeable changes in weather and climate patterns around the globe. For example, regions may experience increased frequency of extreme weather events like storms and floods or prolonged droughts. Additionally, shifting climate zones can affect ecosystems and biodiversity as species struggle to adapt to rapidly changing conditions. This creates challenges for agriculture, water resources, and human settlements.
• Evaluate the long-term implications of global warming on Earth's carbon cycle and climate systems.
  • The long-term implications of global warming on Earth's carbon cycle include disruptions to natural carbon sinks like forests and oceans that absorb CO2. As temperatures rise, these ecosystems may become less effective at sequestering carbon, leading to further increases in atmospheric CO2 levels. Moreover, melting permafrost releases stored greenhouse gases, which can exacerbate warming. This feedback loop has serious consequences for climate systems, potentially resulting in irreversible changes that could affect weather patterns, sea levels, and biodiversity for generations.

Related terms

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

carbon footprint: The total amount of greenhouse gases emitted directly or indirectly by an individual, organization, event, or product.

climate feedback: Processes that can either amplify or diminish the effects of climate change, such as the ice-albedo feedback where melting ice reduces reflectivity and increases warming.