Climate Change

Front

What is the primary source of energy for Earth's climate system?

Back

The Sun

Front

Why are greenhouse gases like CO2 and methane important to Earth's climate?

Back

They trap the Sun's energy so that Earth's surface is warm.

Front

What happens when CO2 and other greenhouse gases increase in our atmosphere?

Back

Average global temperatures increase.

Front

Which answer best describes the North Pole?

Back

Ice a few feet or yards thick floating over a deep ocean.

Front

What is albedo?

Back

Albedo is a measure of surface reflectivity.

Front

Why is polar albedo important?

Back

It reflects solar radiation back into space, cooling Earth.

Front

What are greenhouse gases?

Back

Gases that trap heat in the atmosphere, such as CO2 and methane.

Front

What is climate change?

Back

A long-term change in temperature and typical weather patterns in a place.

Front

How does deforestation contribute to climate change?

Back

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

Front

What is the greenhouse effect?

Back

The process by which greenhouse gases trap heat in the atmosphere.