THE HUMAN IMPACT ON CLIMATE AND ATMOSPHERE Flashcards
T or F: The climate of the world is now known to have fluctuated frequently and extensively in the three or so million years during which humans have inhabited the earth.
True
occurs in the atmosphere because of the presence of certain gases that absorb infrared radiation.
greenhouse effect
This causes the average temperature of the earth’s surface and atmosphere to increase.
greenhouse effect
- decrease in sunlight reaching the Earth’s surface due to pollutants like aerosols that reflect sunlight back into space.
Global Dimming
- subsequent increase in surface sunlight following reductions in such pollutants.
Global Brightening
T or F: Global dimming can’t mask the warming effects of greenhouse gases, while global brightening may enhance global warming.
False: Global dimming “can” mask the warming effects of greenhouse gases
- involves alterations in plant cover due to activities like deforestation and urbanization.
Vegetation Change
- variations in the Earth’s surface reflectivity; surfaces with higher albedo reflect more sunlight, influencing temperature.
Albedo Change
T or F: Loss of vegetation can lead to increased soil erosion and degradation
True
Plant trees to restore ecosystems and improve albedo.
-What Solution?
Reforestation
Adopt practices that preserve vegetation and soil health.-What Solution?
Sustainable Land Use
the distinct weather and climate conditions in cities, primarily influenced by human activities, infrastructure, and land use, leading to effects like the urban heat island phenomenon, altered wind patterns, and changes in precipitation.
URBAN CLIMATES
- refers to human interventions aimed at altering weather and climate patterns, such as enhancing precipitation, reducing storm intensity, dispersing fog, or modifying local temperatures using artificial techniques like cloud seeding, reflective materials, or windbreaks
Deliberate Climatic Modification
large-scale technological interventions designed to counteract climate change. While it offers potential solutions, it also comes with risks and ethical concerns.
Geoengineering
– Reflecting sunlight. (what geoengineering?)
Solar Radiation Management (SRM)
– Removing CO₂. (what geoengineering?)
Carbon Dioxide Removal (CDR)
Cities worldwide face severe air pollution due to transportation, industry, and urbanization. Air pollution is now one of the biggest environmental health risks, contributing to millions of premature deaths each year
URBAN AIR POLLUTION
The depletion of the ozone layer, primarily caused by human-made chemicals such as chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), has led to increased ultraviolet (UV) radiation reaching the Earth’s surface. This has serious implications for human health, ecosystems, and climate systems.
STRATOSPHERIC OZONE DEPLETION
It is a significant volcanic eruption in the Philippines that dates back to 1991.
Mt. Pinatubo Eruption
It replaces natural landscapes with surfaces that have different albedo properties affecting local and global climates.
Deforestation and Urban Expansion
It is one of the most important trace gases
Methane
It is particularly large inland water bodies that can significantly alter local or regional climates.
Lakes
It is an ancient technique that includes layered cropping and the use of rocks to accelerate snowmelt.
Traditional Climate Management
