Human Impact and Climate Change

What is the "Blue Marble" image known for, besides being a cool space travel picture?

• Showing the Earth's flat surface.

• Inspiring the environmental movement.

• Proving that the Earth is much larger than previously thought.

• Being the first picture of the moon.

Why was it difficult for early scientists to study global climate change?

• They only focused on studying the moon and stars.

• There were too many different local weather patterns and Earth systems to combine.

• They did not have enough funding for their research.

• They believed the Earth's climate never changed.

Which scientist first correctly predicted rising atmospheric carbon dioxide and increasing global temperatures in 1938?

• Charles Keeling

• Roger Revelle

• Guy Callendar

• Paul Crutzen

Which of the following is NOT a factor that contributed to the "Great Acceleration" and significant human impact on Earth?

• Rapid growth in human population.

• Increased use of freshwater.

• Decreased greenhouse gas emissions.

• Higher consumption of natural resources.

What defines a "mega city"?

• A city with a population of over 5 million people.

• An urban area with over 10 million people.

• A city with extensive green spaces and national parks.

• A city primarily focused on industrial agriculture.

Why are chicken bones considered a significant marker of human impact in the geological record?

• Chickens are the only domesticated animal whose bones fossilize easily.

• Their bones are uniquely shaped and easily identifiable by geologists.

• Humans have heavily designed chickens, making them the most common terrestrial vertebrate.

• Chickens have been alive for billions of years, leaving a long fossil history.

What do "planetary boundaries" represent?

• The physical limits of Earth's atmosphere.

• A set of nine specific ranges for natural processes within which humans can safely live.

• The maximum population Earth can sustain without environmental damage.

• The legal borders between countries regarding environmental policies.

How did the idea of "climate denial" originate?

• It was a scientific theory proposed by a minority of researchers.

• It was created by fossil fuel companies using PR strategies from tobacco companies.

• It emerged from a lack of scientific consensus on climate change.

• It was a political movement started by environmental activists.