Chapter 12 - Climate Change and Humans

Question 1

Positive water vapour feedback

Answer 1

Water temp = more water in the air = warmer temp = more water …

Question 2

Negative water vapour feedback

Answer 2

More water = more clouds = less energy = cooler temps

Question 3

Carbon cycle

Question 4

Carbon sink

Answer 4

A carbon sink is a major source or reservoir of carbon compounds.

Question 5

Deforestation

Answer 5

Deforestation is the clearing of forest from land and is a practice that can affect the climate of an area.

Question 6

Reforestation

Answer 6

Reforestation is the process of replanting an area with trees.

Question 7

General circulation models (GCMs)

Answer 7

Complex mathematical models that use computers to analyze and make quantitative projections of future climate change. These models use the laws of conservation of momentum, mass, moisture and energy. GMCs simulate how various factors such as temperature, humidity, wind speed and direction, ocean currents and salinity, soil moisture, and many other factors affect climate change.

Question 8

Intergovernmental panel on climate change (IPCC)

Answer 8

The largest gathering of scientists to work on one issue. Scientists from many countries asses current climate and climate change.

Question 9

Kyoto protocol

Answer 9

A set of terms for the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions to a level 5.2% below that of 1990, and was singed by over 160 countries.

Question 10

Precautionary principle

Answer 10

Don’t wait to try to do better.

Don’t do damage

If you know better do better

Question 11

Gaia hypothesis

Answer 11

We are all connected and live on one earth. We are all responsible.