Unit 1, exam 1 Flashcards
5 parts of earths climate system plus external one
atmosphere hydrosphere lithosphere biosphere cryosphere
the sun
dynamic
always changing
global radiation equilibrium
incoming energy = outgoing energy
warming climate
energy received at surface> energy lost to space
cooling climate
energy received at surface< energy lost to space
mitigation
reduce sources that contribute to changing systems or enhance mechanisms that resist climate change
adaptation
adjustment in natural or human systems
climate variability
climate changes on a spacial or temporal scale separate from weather events
climate change
although naturally occurring, this really refers to anthroprogenesis
climate vulnerbility
degree to which systems are susceptible to or incapable of coping with adverse impacts of a variation in climate.
sustainability
capacity to meet needs of present without compromising future generations meeting their own needs.
open system
exchanges both energy and mass with environment
closed system
exchange energy but NOT mass with environment
gases in atmosphere
N2=78%
O2=28%
trace gases 4% (argon)
lapse rate
change in T with height
