D4.3 Climate change SL Flashcards
Anthropogenic Climate Change
Refers to climate change caused by human activities, especially through the release of greenhouse gases like CO2 and CH4
Greenhouse Gases
Gases like CO2 and CH4 that trap heat in the atmosphere, contributing to global warming
CO2 Emissions
Carbon dioxide released by activities like burning fossil fuels and deforestation, enhancing the greenhouse effect.
Methane (CH4)
A potent greenhouse gas released during fossil fuel extraction, agriculture, and organic waste decomposition.
Enhanced Greenhouse Effect
The intensification of the natural greenhouse effect due to increased greenhouse gas concentrations from human activities
How do human activities contribute to atmospheric CO2?
Through cellular respiration, burning fossil fuels, and deforestation.
What role do trees play in regulating CO2?
Trees absorb CO2 through photosynthesis, reducing atmospheric levels
What is the impact of deforestation on climate change?
It increases CO2 levels by reducing the Earth’s capacity to absorb this greenhouse gas
Why is methane considered a potent greenhouse gas?
It has a stronger effect on warming the atmosphere than CO2
Fossil Fuels
Fuels like coal, oil, and natural gas whose combustion releases significant amounts of CO2
Positive Feedback Cycle
A process where an initial change triggers effects that further intensify the original change
What is an example of a positive feedback cycle in global warming?
The melting of snow and ice, leading to reduced albedo and increased absorption of solar radiation
Albedo
The proportion of radiation reflected by a surface; lower albedo leads to more heat absorption
How does permafrost thawing affect climate change?
Thawing releases methane, a potent greenhouse gas, intensifying warming
Peat Decomposition
Accelerated decomposition releases CO2 and methane, contributing to global warming
