Urban Heat Island

Draw a molecular model to show cold air vs warm air.

Answer explanation

Warmer molecules move faster and have more vibration lines, colder molecules move slower and have less vibration lines

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-6

NGSS.MS-PS1-4

What is an urban heat island?

• A city that is cooler than its surroundings

• A city that experiences much warmer temperatures than nearby rural areas

• A rural area that is warmer than nearby cities

• A natural phenomenon that cools urban areas

Why do urban areas tend to be warmer than rural areas?

• Urban areas are closer to the sun

• Urban areas have more water bodies

• Urban areas have surfaces that absorb and hold more heat

• Urban areas have more plants

What is one way cities are trying to reduce urban heat islands?

• By painting buildings black

• By cutting down trees

• By using more asphalt

• By lightening streets with reflective coatings

Tags

NGSS.MS-ETS1-3

What is the role of NASA satellites in understanding urban heat islands?

• They increase urban temperatures

• They build new cities

• They cool down urban areas

• They track hotspots and help urban planners

What is a characteristic of urban building materials?

• They are mostly light-colored

• They are permeable to water

• They are often dark and absorb heat

• They are made of natural materials

Tags

NGSS.MS-PS1-3

What can higher temperatures in cities lead to?

• More rainfall

• Increased plant growth

• Decreased energy usage

• Dehydration and heat exhaustion

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS3-4

What is the primary cause of the urban heat island effect?

• Increased vegetation in urban areas

• High concentration of vehicles

• Absorption and retention of heat by buildings and roads

• Proximity to industrial areas

Which of the following is a common method to mitigate urban heat islands?

• Installing more air conditioners

• Increasing the use of dark asphalt

• Planting more trees and vegetation

• Building more skyscrapers

Tags

NGSS.MS-ETS1-3

NGSS.MS-LS2-5

How do green roofs help in reducing urban heat islands?

• By reflecting sunlight

• By absorbing rainwater and providing insulation

• By increasing the use of concrete

• By generating electricity

Tags

NGSS.MS-PS3-3