Human Interactions on the Biosphere; Climate Change

Question 1

What is causing Global Warming?

Answer 1

-The concentrations of gases in our atmosphere (mostly CO2) maintain the average temperature on Earth about 25°C higher

Question 2

What does changes in temperature effect?

Answer 2

• It affects global wind & water-current patterns= as the global temperature rises, some parts warm to a lesser extent while others warm to a greater extent
• Rainfall patterns are also altered bc the global precipitation patterns depend on global wind patterns

Question 3

How much is the global temperature predicted to increase?

Answer 3

2.5°C to 7.8°C

Question 4

How does CO2 affect global temperature?

Answer 4

-CO2 strongly absorbs electromagnetic radiant energy at some of the wavelengths that are critical for the global heat budget= absorbs energy at the longer wavelengths=slows the rate at which energy travels away from Earth

Question 5

How can Earth’s temperature remain constant?

Answer 5

-Only if the amount of radiant energy coming in to Earth from the sun is equal to the amount of radiant energy that Earth is emitting into space

Question 6

What’s the difference between the wavelengths that are coming into Earth & the ones leaving Earth?

Answer 6

• The incoming solar energy is at short wavelengths= visible/ near visible
• The outgoing energy is at longer wavelengths

Question 7

What are the other Greenhouse gases that play a role in climate change?

Answer 7

-Methane & Nitrous Oxide

Question 8

What is the largest source of nitrous oxide emissions?

Answer 8

-Agricultural use of fertilizers

Question 9

What are the concerns for the species on Earth as a result of global warming?

Answer 9

• The rate is very rapid= evolutionary adaptations would need to occur over a few generations
• Natural areas no longer cover whole landscapes= often take in the form of parks that are completely surrounded by cities & farms= species disappearing & park diversity plummeting

Question 10

What is the positive side effect for agriculture as a result of global warming?

Answer 10

-Warmer temperatures & increased atmospheric CO2 tend to increase the growth of some crops= increase agricultural yields but also hinder other crops

Question 11

How can global warming affect human health?

Answer 11

• Epidemics of cholera & other diseases are expected to occur more often
• As temps rise, areas suitable for tropical organisms will expand forward (mosquitos)