Unit 2: Climate

Question 1

Shortwave radiation

Answer 1

Heat energy released by the sun

Question 2

Longwave radiation

Answer 2

Heat energy released by the earth

Question 3

Albedo

Answer 3

Measure of how much solar radiation is reflected by a surface, expressed as a percentage

Question 4

Natural Greenhouse effect

Answer 4

Process by which gasses allow shortwave radiation through the atmosphere, but trap an increasing proportion of outgoing longwave radiation

Question 5

Global dimming

Answer 5

Particles of pollution bind with water vapor, creating reflective droplets -> reducing the amount of solar radiation reaching earth

Question 6

Example of a positive feedback loop

Answer 6

Ice melting as a result of global warming reveals rotten vegetation, releasing methane, furthering the greenhouse effect

Question 7

Example of a negative feedback loop

Answer 7

Global warming leads to more evaporation from oceans; leading to more low-level cloud formation, which reflects short-wave radiation. Reducing surface temperatures.

Question 8

Carbon offsetting

Answer 8

Schemes which allow individuals to offset their emissions by investing in projects that reduce emissions.

Question 9

Carbon trading

Answer 9

Trading of carbon credits (maximum allowance of co2 emissions) between nations

Question 10

Ocean fertilization (geo-engineering)

Answer 10

Adding nutrients (iron) to parts of the ocean to encourage the growth of phytoplankton -> uptake co2 via respiration