Global climate change

Definition

Global climate change encompasses long-term alterations in temperature, precipitation, wind patterns, and other aspects of Earth's climate system. It is primarily driven by human activities such as the burning of fossil fuels and deforestation.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The primary greenhouse gases contributing to global climate change include carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), and nitrous oxide (N2O).
2. Increased atmospheric CO2 leads to ocean acidification, which negatively impacts marine life.
3. Rising global temperatures are causing polar ice caps and glaciers to melt, leading to sea level rise.
4. Climate change can disrupt ecosystems, leading to shifts in species distribution and increased extinction rates.
5. Extreme weather events such as hurricanes, droughts, and heatwaves are becoming more frequent and severe due to global climate change.

Review Questions

• What are the main greenhouse gases responsible for global climate change?
• How does increased atmospheric CO2 affect marine life?
• What are some of the impacts of rising global temperatures on Earth's physical environment?

Related terms

Greenhouse Effect: The process by which certain gases trap heat in Earth's atmosphere, leading to a warming effect.

Carbon Footprint: The total amount of greenhouse gases produced directly and indirectly by human activities.

Ecosystem Disruption: Significant changes in ecosystem structure and function due to external pressures like climate change.