Climate Change and Energy Budget Flashcard

Front

What is fundamental to the climate system?

Back

Balancing the global energy budget is essential for maintaining the Earth's climate stability.

Front

Where does the Earth receive more energy per unit area?

Back

The Tropics receive more energy per unit area compared to other regions due to direct sunlight.

Front

What is the primary cause of the increasing concentration of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere?

Back

The burning of fossil fuels is the main contributor to the rising levels of carbon dioxide.

Front

What would happen to Earth's temperature if the energy absorbed from the sun was less than the emitted energy?

Back

The Earth would get cooler if it absorbs less solar energy than it emits.

Front

What are scientists uncertain about regarding the Earth-climate system?

Back

Scientists are uncertain about the effect of carbon dioxide on climate change.

Front

Define the global energy budget.

Back

The global energy budget refers to the balance between the energy Earth receives from the sun and the energy it radiates back into space.

Front

What role do greenhouse gases play in climate change?

Back

Greenhouse gases trap heat in the atmosphere, leading to an increase in Earth's temperature.

Front

Explain the concept of albedo.

Back

Albedo is the measure of how much sunlight is reflected by a surface; higher albedo means more reflection and less absorption of heat.

Front

What is the significance of the carbon cycle?

Back

The carbon cycle is crucial for regulating Earth's climate by controlling the levels of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere.

Front

How does deforestation contribute to climate change?

Back

Deforestation increases carbon dioxide levels by reducing the number of trees that can absorb CO2.