Climate and Climate Change Flashcard

Front

What is albedo?

Back

Albedo is a measure of how much light that hits a surface is reflected without being absorbed. A high albedo means more reflection, while a low albedo means more absorption.

Front

How does a high albedo roof help in climate control?

Back

A high albedo roof reflects more sunlight, keeping the house cooler and reducing the need for air conditioning.

Front

What natural process removes carbon dioxide from the atmosphere?

Back

Photosynthesis is the process by which plants convert carbon dioxide into oxygen and glucose, effectively removing CO2 from the atmosphere.

Front

What role do trees play in climate change?

Back

Trees absorb carbon dioxide during photosynthesis, helping to mitigate climate change by reducing greenhouse gas levels.

Front

What is the greenhouse effect?

Back

The greenhouse effect is the warming of the Earth's surface due to the trapping of heat by greenhouse gases in the atmosphere.

Front

What are greenhouse gases?

Back

Greenhouse gases are gases that trap heat in the atmosphere, including carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide.

Front

What is global warming?

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Global warming refers to the long-term increase in Earth's average surface temperature due to human activities, primarily the burning of fossil fuels.

Front

What are heat islands?

Back

Heat islands are urban areas that experience higher temperatures than their rural surroundings due to human activities and infrastructure.

Front

What is the impact of increased carbon dioxide on global temperatures?

Back

Increased carbon dioxide levels trap more heat in the atmosphere, leading to higher global temperatures.

Front

True or False: Some greenhouse gases are naturally present in the Earth's atmosphere.

Back

True. Greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide and methane occur naturally and are essential for maintaining Earth's temperature.