Climate Change

Front

What is albedo and how does it affect climate change?

Back

Albedo is the measure of reflectivity of the Earth's surface. A higher albedo means more sunlight is reflected back into space, which can lead to cooling, while a lower albedo means more absorption of heat, contributing to warming.

Front

How does soil and rock exposure affect the Earth's albedo?

Back

More exposed soil and rock generally lower the Earth's albedo because these surfaces tend to absorb more sunlight compared to vegetation or ice.

Front

What is the primary process by which carbon dioxide is removed from the atmosphere?

Back

Photosynthesis is the main process that removes carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, as plants convert CO2 into oxygen and glucose using sunlight.

Front

What are greenhouse gases and why are they important?

Back

Greenhouse gases, such as carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide, trap heat in the atmosphere, contributing to the greenhouse effect and global warming.

Front

Which gas is NOT considered a greenhouse gas?

Back

Nitrogen (N2) is not considered a greenhouse gas because it does not significantly absorb infrared radiation.

Front

What is carbon sequestration?

Back

Carbon sequestration is the process of capturing and storing atmospheric carbon dioxide to mitigate climate change.

Front

Give an example of carbon sequestration. What is NOT an example?

Back

An example of carbon sequestration is planting trees. Reducing coal-based electricity is NOT an example of carbon sequestration.

Front

What human activity contributes to an increase in atmospheric carbon dioxide?

Back

Deforestation contributes to an increase in atmospheric carbon dioxide by reducing the number of trees that can absorb CO2.

Front

How does deforestation impact the carbon cycle?

Back

Deforestation disrupts the carbon cycle by decreasing carbon storage in trees and increasing CO2 levels in the atmosphere.

Front

What role do oceans play in carbon dioxide absorption?

Back

Oceans absorb a significant amount of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, acting as a carbon sink and helping to regulate global climate.