Climate Change Flashcard

Front

What is climate forcing?

Back

Climate forcing refers to an external factor that influences the Earth's climate system, such as volcanic eruptions or changes in solar radiation.

Front

Give an example of climate forcing.

Back

Volcanic eruptions are an example of climate forcing.

Front

What is El Niño?

Back

El Niño is a climate pattern characterized by the warming of ocean surface temperatures in the central and eastern Pacific Ocean, affecting global weather patterns.

Front

What is the primary effect of El Niño on global weather patterns?

Back

The primary effect of El Niño is decreased hurricane activity in the Atlantic.

Front

What are greenhouse gases?

Back

Greenhouse gases are gases in the Earth's atmosphere that trap heat, contributing to the greenhouse effect and climate change.

Front

Which factor contributes to external variability of the climate?

Back

Greenhouse gases contribute to external variability of the climate.

Front

What is positive feedback in the climate system?

Back

Positive feedback is a process that leads to more of the initial change, amplifying the effects of climate change.

Front

Give an example of positive feedback in the climate system.

Back

An example of positive feedback is the melting of ice, which reduces the Earth's albedo, leading to more heat absorption and further melting.

Front

How do aerosols affect the Earth's climate system?

Back

Aerosols can affect the climate by increasing the reflection of solar radiation, which can cool the Earth's surface.

Front

What is the greenhouse effect?

Back

The greenhouse effect is the process by which certain gases in the Earth's atmosphere trap heat, keeping the planet warm.