Earth's Changing Climate: Chapter 1 Flashcard

Front

What trend are we seeing in Earth's surface ice?

Back

Decrease

Front

What is the ability to make things move or change?

Back

Energy

Front

What does good evidence show regarding trends over a long period of time?

Back

It shows trends instead of fluctuations within a short period of time.

Front

What term describes variations in a set of data?

Back

Fluctuation

Front

What is the mixture of gases surrounding a planet called?

Back

Atmosphere

Front

What is the primary cause of climate change?

Back

Human activities, particularly the burning of fossil fuels.

Front

What is the greenhouse effect?

Back

The process by which certain gases trap heat in the atmosphere, leading to a warming effect.

Front

What are the main greenhouse gases?

Back

Carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), nitrous oxide (N2O), and fluorinated gases.

Front

How does deforestation contribute to climate change?

Back

It reduces the number of trees that can absorb CO2, increasing the concentration of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere.

Front

What is the significance of ice core samples in climate studies?

Back

They provide historical data on Earth's climate and atmospheric composition over thousands of years.