Climate Feedback Mechanisms Explained

The video tutorial explains feedback mechanisms in climate, distinguishing between positive and negative feedback. Positive feedback amplifies changes, exemplified by ocean warming leading to less ice and more solar absorption. Negative feedback, like increased cloud cover, can cool the Earth by blocking solar radiation. Aerosols, often from fossil fuels, also contribute to cooling but are short-lived. The tutorial emphasizes the complexity of these mechanisms in the context of global climate change.

What is the primary function of a positive feedback mechanism?

• To diminish the original change

• To enhance the original change

• To maintain the status quo

• To reverse the original change

What is the main difference between positive and negative feedback mechanisms?

• Both diminish changes

• Both enhance changes

• Positive feedback enhances changes, negative feedback diminishes them

• Positive feedback diminishes changes, negative feedback enhances them

Which of the following is an example of a positive feedback mechanism in climate?

• Precipitation removing aerosols

• Warmer oceans leading to less ice cover

• Increased cloud cover

• Aerosols blocking solar radiation

How does the decrease in ice cover affect the Earth's reflectivity?

• It stabilizes reflectivity

• It increases reflectivity

• It decreases reflectivity

• It has no effect on reflectivity

How does increased cloud cover act as a negative feedback mechanism?

• By increasing solar radiation absorption

• By enhancing global warming

• By blocking incoming solar radiation

• By increasing ocean temperatures

What happens to water when Earth's temperatures rise, according to the negative feedback mechanism?

• It remains as liquid

• It evaporates into the atmosphere

• It freezes

• It condenses immediately

What role do aerosols play in climate feedback mechanisms?

• They increase ocean temperatures

• They block incoming solar radiation

• They enhance global warming

• They increase ice cover

Why is the cooling effect of aerosols considered short-lived?

• Because they are removed by precipitation

• Because they increase global temperatures

• Because they are quickly absorbed by the ocean

• Because they enhance solar radiation

What is the 'corridor of haze' mentioned in the context of aerosols?

• A natural phenomenon

• A region with high solar radiation

• A plume of aerosols from China

• A type of cloud formation

Why is it not encouraged to increase particulates in the air to cool the Earth?

• Because it enhances global warming

• Because it is a complex and potentially harmful solution

• Because it increases ocean temperatures

• Because it has no effect on climate