Evidence of Climate Change Pt. 2

Front

What is the greenhouse effect?

Back

The greenhouse effect is the process by which certain gases in Earth's atmosphere trap heat, preventing it from escaping back into space, which helps to keep the planet warm.

Front

Which gas is primarily responsible for the greenhouse effect?

Back

Carbon Dioxide (CO2) is primarily responsible for the greenhouse effect due to its ability to trap heat.

Front

What human activities have increased atmospheric CO2 levels?

Back

Human activities such as burning fossil fuels, deforestation, and industrial processes have significantly increased atmospheric CO2 levels.

Front

What is the significance of Mauna Loa Observatory in climate studies?

Back

Mauna Loa Observatory is significant because it has been monitoring and collecting data on atmospheric CO2 levels since 1958, showing a clear upward trend.

Front

What is the current trend of CO2 levels at Mauna Loa from 1960 to 2020?

Back

CO2 levels have steadily risen from 315 ppm in 1960 to almost 415 ppm in 2020.

Front

What are greenhouse gases?

Back

Greenhouse gases are gases that trap heat in the atmosphere, including carbon dioxide, methane, and water vapor.

Front

How do greenhouse gases contribute to climate change?

Back

Greenhouse gases contribute to climate change by trapping heat in the atmosphere, leading to an increase in global temperatures.

Front

What is methane and why is it significant in climate change?

Back

Methane is a potent greenhouse gas that is significantly more effective at trapping heat than CO2, making it a major contributor to climate change.

Front

What role does water vapor play in the greenhouse effect?

Back

Water vapor is the most abundant greenhouse gas and amplifies the greenhouse effect by trapping heat in the atmosphere.

Front

What is the impact of deforestation on CO2 levels?

Back

Deforestation increases CO2 levels because trees absorb CO2; when they are cut down, the stored CO2 is released back into the atmosphere.