Climate Change Flashcards
Describe the enhanced greenhouse effect.
The greenhouse effect is when heat is trapped in the lower atmosphere by “greenhouse gases”.
Due to human activities, these greenhouse gases have increased in concentration. This is called the enhanced green house effect and causes global warming.
Name 3 greenhouse gases. How are they produced?
Carbon dioxide. This is produced when wood, coal and oil, is burned.
Methane. This is produced in the production of coal, natural gas and oil. It is also produced by livestock.
Nitrous oxide. This is produced by the manufacturing of chemicals.
What is the main cause of the build-up of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere?
Burning of fossil fuels, like coal and oil.
What are 3 natural causes of change in the Earth’s temperature?
Volcanic eruption, tectonic shifts, changes in global orbit.
What are the consequences of climate change?
A rise in global temperatures, melting of ice, increase in sea levels, extreme weather conditions and risk of animal extinction.
What are 3 sources of renewable and non renewable energy already in use in Australia?
Australia uses non renewable energy sources such as coal, natural gas and oil.
Australia uses renewable energy sources such as wind, hydro and solar energy,
When did the Industrial Revolution start? How does this relate to climate change?
The Industrial Revolution started in 1760 and ended in 1840. Since this time, human activity has released large amounts of greenhouse gases.
Which nations are mainly responsible for climate change?
China and the US
What are the temperatures like on Mars and Venus in comparison to the Earth? What would the average temperature be on Earth if there was no natural greenhouse effect?
Mars has a very thin atmosphere, allowing heat from the sun to easily escape it. Hence, Mars is extremely cold. Venus has a thick atmosphere that is highly concentrated with carbon dioxide, not allowing heat from the sun to escape it. Hence, Venus is extremely hot.
Without the greenhouse effect, the Earth would be -153 degrees Celsius.
How many ppm (parts per million) are there of Carbon Dioxide in the atmosphere?
415 ppm
The largest sources of anthropogenic (human-made) greenhouse gases in Australia are…
What was the Kyoto Protocol? Which two developed nations did not sign it?
The Kyoto Protocol was an international agreement between countries of the UN to reduce GHG emissions, according to individualised targets.
The two countries who did not sign it initially were the US and Australia.
Explain the kinds of energy efficient/sustainability features that can be incorporated in building design to make them more environmentally friendly.
Hydronic cooling loops, concrete floor slabs, LED lights
Describe different technologies that enhance the energy efficiency of transportation.
Hybrid and electric cars
