Global Warming

Question 1

what does the greenhouse effect describe

Answer 1

the greenhouse effect describes how greenhouse gases act as natural insulating layers In the atmosphere. re-radiating most of the heat energy

Question 2

what is the greenhouse effect said to be causing

Answer 2

global warming

Question 3

what are the gases that contribute to the greenhouse effect and how do they come about

Answer 3

1) Water Vapour - rising temps cause more water to evaporate creating a positive feedback loop where water vapour intensifies global warming
2) Carbon Dioxide - released from burning fossil fuels
3) Nitrous Oxide - released from fertilisers in agriculture
4) CFC’s - released from aerosol cans, refrigerators and AC
5) Methane - released from burning fossil fuels and from practices such as rice paddies and cattle farming

Question 4

what are the consequences of global warming

Answer 4

1) Ocean acidification - coral reefs cannot build new skeletons
2) Sea surface temps inc - causes bleaching of sensitive corals
3) melting ice - causes sea levels to rise flooding habitats
4) Distribution of species - species forced to relocate
5) Reduction of biodiversity - rapid adaption is key to avoiding extinction however larger animals that have longer generation times may find this harder

Question 5

Can you think of an example of a species that has been affected by changes in sea ice at the North and South pole during the year?

Answer 5

North - Polar bears

South - Penguins