Our Changing Climate

Front

What are greenhouse gases?

Back

Greenhouse gases are gases in Earth's atmosphere that trap heat. They include carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), nitrous oxide (N2O), and water vapor.

Front

What is the greenhouse effect?

Back

The greenhouse effect is a natural phenomenon where certain gases in the atmosphere trap heat from the sun, warming the Earth's surface and lower atmosphere.

Front

Which greenhouse gas is primarily produced by human activities?

Back

Carbon dioxide (CO2) is primarily produced by human activities, such as burning fossil fuels and deforestation.

Front

What percentage of carbon stored in soil is found in the Arctic?

Back

1/3 of the carbon stored in soil on Earth is found in the Arctic.

Front

How much carbon dioxide is released per person each year in the United States?

Back

Approximately 40,000 pounds of carbon dioxide are released per person each year in the United States.

Front

What was the trend in Earth's average surface temperature during the twentieth century?

Back

Earth's average surface temperature increased during the twentieth century.

Front

What role do water vapor and carbon dioxide play in the greenhouse effect?

Back

Water vapor and carbon dioxide absorb and emit infrared radiation, contributing to the greenhouse effect and warming the atmosphere.

Front

What is the impact of deforestation on greenhouse gas levels?

Back

Deforestation increases greenhouse gas levels by reducing the number of trees that can absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.

Front

What is global warming?

Back

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

Front

What are some natural sources of greenhouse gases?

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Natural sources of greenhouse gases include volcanic eruptions, wildfires, and respiration from plants and animals.