Earth Systems Unit 4 Lesson 3 Flashcard

Front

What material reflects the most sunlight at solar noon?

Back

Snow reflects the most sunlight at solar noon.

Front

What is the warming of the Earth's surface and lower atmosphere due to gases absorbing and re-radiating infrared radiation?

Back

The greenhouse effect.

Front

How does an increase in Earth's axial tilt affect summer temperatures?

Back

Summers would be hotter.

Front

What happens to Earth's surface temperature if large amounts of carbon dioxide are removed from the atmosphere?

Back

Surface temperatures would decrease.

Front

What does the Milankovitch theory explain?

Back

The causes of ice ages.

Front

Define the greenhouse effect.

Back

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

Front

What role does snow play in Earth's albedo?

Back

Snow has a high albedo, meaning it reflects a significant amount of sunlight.

Front

Explain how carbon dioxide contributes to the greenhouse effect.

Back

Carbon dioxide absorbs infrared radiation emitted from the Earth's surface and re-radiates it, warming the atmosphere.

Front

What is the relationship between axial tilt and seasonal temperature variations?

Back

Greater axial tilt leads to more extreme seasonal temperature variations.

Front

How does the removal of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere affect climate?

Back

It generally leads to a cooling effect on the Earth's surface.