BIOO QUIZ Flashcards
(57 cards)
What is climate change?
Long-term alterations in temperature and weather patterns, primarily due to human activities like burning fossil fuels.
How is climate different from weather?
Weather refers to short-term atmospheric conditions; climate is the average of these conditions over extended periods.
Name 3 main greenhouse gases.
Carbon dioxide (CO₂), methane (CH₄), and nitrous oxide (N₂O).
Which human activity is the largest contributor to CO₂ emissions?
Burning fossil fuels for electricity and heat production.
What is global warming?
The long-term increase in Earth’s average surface temperature due to rising levels of greenhouse gases.
How much has Earth’s temperature increased since pre-industrial times?
Approximately 1°C.
What is the significance of a 1°C increase in global temperature?
It indicates substantial warming, leading to climate disruptions and extreme weather events.
Which gas is the most abundant greenhouse gas?
Water vapor.
What role does methane play in climate change?
Methane is a potent greenhouse gas, trapping more heat than CO₂ over short periods, significantly contributing to warming.
What does the greenhouse effect do to Earth’s temperature?
It warms the planet by trapping heat from the sun.
Why is the greenhouse effect important for life on Earth?
It maintains temperatures suitable for life by preventing excessive heat loss.
What is the enhanced greenhouse effect?
It maintains temperatures suitable for life by preventing excessive heat loss.
How does burning fossil fuels affect the greenhouse effect?
It releases additional CO₂, enhancing the greenhouse effect and leading to more warming.
Which sectors contribute most to GHG emissions?
Electricity and heat production, transportation, and agriculture.
How do power plants contribute to climate change?
By burning fossil fuels, they emit large amounts of CO₂.
What is carbon dioxide’s (CO₂) source in agriculture?
Soil management and the use of fossil fuels in farming equipment.
How is nitrous oxide released into the atmosphere?
Through agricultural activities
especially the use of nitrogen-based fertilizers.
Which greenhouse gas comes from landfills and livestock?
Methane (CH₄).
