Chapter 1 Flashcards
Precipitation Patterns
Precipitation patterns are shifting globally, leading to wetter conditions in some regions and drier conditions in others.
These changes impact ecosystems, water resources, and the frequency of natural disasters like wildfires.
UN Framework Convention on Climate Change
The UNFCCC is an international treaty aimed at stabilizing atmospheric greenhouse gases to prevent dangerous climate change. It includes agreements like the Kyoto Protocol and the Paris Agreement to reduce emissions and promote sustainability.
Arctic Sea Ice Melting
Arctic sea ice melting is a significant issue, with the extent decreasing over the years due to global warming. The loss of sea ice leads to the absorption of more solar energy by the ocean, contributing to climate change.
Adaptation to Climate Change
Adaptation to climate change involves making plans to address challenges like mass migration, conflicts, and changing technologies and lifestyles. It is essential to mitigate the impacts of climate change and protect vulnerable populations.
Climate Models
Climate models project future climate scenarios based on input data and parameters. They are essential tools for understanding potential climate outcomes and guiding policy decisions to address climate change.
Greenhouse Gas Emissions
Greenhouse gas emissions, primarily from countries like China and the United States, are a major contributor to climate change. Efforts to reduce emissions and transition to sustainable energy sources are crucial.
Tipping Point
Scientists warn that we may have already passed a tipping point in climate change, making it crucial to rapidly mitigate greenhouse gases and adapt to the changing climate. Urgent action is needed to prevent irreversible damage.
Sea Level Rise
Sea level rise is a real and concerning phenomenon, particularly affecting low-lying areas like Indonesian islands and the Gulf Coast of the United States. It poses threats to coastal communities and ecosystems.
Emissions Gap
The emissions gap refers to the difference between current greenhouse gas mitigation targets and the necessary reductions to limit global warming. Closing this gap is crucial to prevent further climate change impacts.
National Determined Contributions
National Determined Contributions are post-2020 climate action plans developed and communicated by each country.
These plans outline specific steps and targets to reduce emissions and combat climate change.
How are precipitation patterns shifting globally, and what are the implications mentioned in the text?
Precipitation patterns are shifting, with some regions getting wetter and others drier. This shift is contributing to issues like wildfires in drier regions.
What are some consequences of sea level rise on freshwater sources like the Everglades in Florida?
Sea level rise is causing seawater to infiltrate freshwater sources like the Everglades, making the drinking water salty and unusable.
What impact did the reduced Arctic sea ice have in 2012, as mentioned in the text?
The reduced Arctic sea ice in 2012 led to a hurricane-strength storm in the Arctic, causing significant damage in areas like
Barrow, Alaska.
What are some areas that are being directly affected by sea level rise?
Some areas being directly affected by sea level rise are
Indonesian islands and the Gulf Coast from Texas to Florida.
What is salination and how is it being used to address water scarcity in some regions?
Salination is the process of removing salt from ocean water to make it drinkable. It is being used in places like Kuwait where all water comes from desalination plants.
