Greenhouse Effect and Climate Change Flashcards

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Note: We may include questions that have multiple correct answers. It's useful to remember specific examples to understand these concepts better.

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What is the greenhouse effect?

The greenhouse effect is the warming of the Earth when gases in the atmosphere trap some of the Sun’s heat.

Name three main greenhouse gases in the Earth’s atmosphere.

Carbon dioxide, methane and water vapour are three main greenhouse gases.

Describe what happens to sunlight in the greenhouse effect.

Sunlight passes through the atmosphere and warms the Earth’s surface. The surface gives off heat, and greenhouse gases absorb some of this heat and send it back, warming the air.

Why is the natural greenhouse effect important for life on Earth?

The natural greenhouse effect keeps the Earth warm enough for liquid water and life. Without it, the Earth would be too cold for most living things.

What is meant by the enhanced greenhouse effect?

The enhanced greenhouse effect is extra warming caused by higher levels of greenhouse gases from human activities.

How does burning fossil fuels increase the enhanced greenhouse effect?

Burning coal, oil and gas releases carbon dioxide. More carbon dioxide in the air traps more heat, which increases the enhanced greenhouse effect.

How does cutting down forests (deforestation) increase climate change?

Trees take in carbon dioxide. When forests are cut down or burned, less carbon dioxide is removed from the air and more is released, so the greenhouse effect increases.

Give two human activities that add methane to the atmosphere.

Farming cattle and sheep, growing rice in paddy fields, and rotting rubbish in landfill sites all release methane.

What is meant by climate change?

Climate change is a long-term change in average weather conditions on Earth, such as temperature, rainfall and storms.

How can climate change affect sea levels?

Higher global temperatures melt ice and warm the oceans. This makes sea levels rise.