Chapter 12: Climate- The Basics Flashcards
Why is the log scale used in geological time?
Shortens longer periods and increases shorter periods
What are the 3 major causes of climate change?
- Changed in Plate Techtonics
- Changes in Earths orbit
- Changes in Suns energy
The _____ a system is to its equilibrium position, the _______________ to push it alone and the _______ it takes to change
closer
smaller the driving force
longer
When is the rate of response the fastest?
When a climatic system is further away from equilibrium
What are +/- feedbacks?
Some interaction in the climate system already in operation initiating responses that may amplify whatever forcing is going on or may suppress the primary forcing factor
Why does climate vary?
Because of the attitudes and because of the changes int he amounts of reflected and absorbed radiation
Historically, what was used to measure climate?
Thermometers, barometers, balloons and now satellites
Currently what is our only source of climate data from way back when?
From sediments preserved in the ocean basins that haven’t been recycled by subduction
Why are ocean sediments useful?
They are formed at the earths surface and at surface temperature, and usually their deposition is uninterrupted
What is the downfall for using ocean sediments?
Its only good for that specific locations
Degradation over time can lessen the quality of it
What are the 3 isotopes of oxygen and which one is most common?
16O, 17O, 18O
-16O is the most common and then 18O
What is fractionation?
The variation in isotopes among materials
What happens to the 18/16 ratio when temperatures are increase?
Ratio with be similar to each other
What happens to the 18/16 ration when temperature is decreased?
Ratio will stay the same but the ratio of calcite will increase
Where are glaciers and ice sheets found?
Glaciers are at high latitudes
Ice sheets are near the poles
