Greenhouse Effect and Climate Change

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 into space, which helps to keep the planet warm.

Front

What are greenhouse gases?

Back

Greenhouse gases are gases that contribute to the greenhouse effect by absorbing infrared radiation. Key examples include carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), and nitrous oxide (N2O).

Front

What is carbon dioxide's role in climate change?

Back

Carbon dioxide is a major greenhouse gas produced by human activities, such as burning fossil fuels, and it accounts for 81.6% of U.S. greenhouse gas emissions.

Front

How do forests help mitigate climate change?

Back

Forests act as carbon sinks, absorbing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and helping to reduce the overall concentration of greenhouse gases.

Front

What is alternative energy?

Back

Alternative energy refers to energy generated from sources that do not deplete natural resources or harm the environment, such as solar, wind, and hydroelectric power.

Front

What human activities contribute to climate change?

Back

Human activities that contribute to climate change include burning fossil fuels, deforestation, and industrial processes that release greenhouse gases.

Front

What is methane and how is it produced?

Back

Methane is a potent greenhouse gas produced by livestock digestion (burps and farts), landfills, and natural gas extraction.

Front

What is the albedo effect?

Back

The albedo effect is the measure of how much sunlight is reflected by a surface. Surfaces with high albedo, like ice and snow, reflect more sunlight, while darker surfaces absorb more.

Front

What are the effects of climate change?

Back

Effects of climate change include rising sea levels, increased frequency of extreme weather events, and changes in ecosystems and wildlife.

Front

What is the difference between renewable and non-renewable energy?

Back

Renewable energy comes from sources that can be replenished naturally, like solar and wind, while non-renewable energy comes from sources that can be depleted, like fossil fuels.