Environmental Science Review

Global warming refers to the long-term increase in Earth's average surface temperature due to human activities, primarily the emission of greenhouse gases.

Greenhouse gases are gases that trap heat in the atmosphere, contributing to the greenhouse effect. Key examples include carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide.

The greenhouse effect is the process by which certain gases in Earth's atmosphere trap heat, preventing it from escaping into space and thus warming the planet.

Anthropogenic climate change refers to changes in the climate that are a result of human activities, particularly the burning of fossil fuels and deforestation.

Volcanic activity can influence climate by releasing ash and gases into the atmosphere, which can temporarily cool the Earth or contribute to warming.

Changes in the sun's energy output can lead to variations in climate, as more energy can increase temperatures while less energy can lead to cooling.

Nitrous oxide is a potent greenhouse gas produced by agricultural and industrial activities, as well as during combustion of fossil fuels and solid waste.

Biodiversity refers to the variety of life in a particular habitat or ecosystem, including the number of species, genetic diversity, and ecosystem diversity.

Deforestation contributes to climate change by reducing the number of trees that can absorb carbon dioxide, leading to higher levels of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere.

Glaciers are important indicators of climate change; their melting rates can provide evidence of rising global temperatures.