Climate Basics
True or false
Climate is the average weather conditions in a region over a long period of time.
true
What is a major cause of increased heat being trapped in Earth’s atmosphere?
Increased fossil fuel use
What is a likely effect of climate change on deserts?
Expansion of desert areas
Why might crop yields decrease due to climate change?
Increased evaporation leads to drought
A decrease in sea ice reduces Earth’s albedo. What effect does this have on climate?
More heat is absorbed by the ocean/Increased melting of ice
What ocean current keeps Northern Europe warmer than expected?
Gulf Stream
How might climate change impact tropical rainforests?
. Increased fires and loss of biodiversity
What conclusion can scientists make from long-term temperature data?
Earth has warmed over time
The process where gases trap heat in Earth’s atmosphere is called
The greenhouse effect
During La Niña conditions, what happens?
Atlantic hurricanes increase
A. Flooding
B. Erosion
C. Hurricanes
What method is used to study past atmospheric CO₂ levels?
Ice cores
Why is methane considered part of a positive feedback loop?
It causes warming, which releases more methane
Increasing extreme temperatures everywhere
A. Flooding
B. Loss of drinking water
C. Increased mold
What two factors cause sea levels to rise?
Glaciers + thermal expansion
Which best describes Earth’s energy balance?
Incoming solar radiation and outgoing thermal radiation
How does deforestation contribute to climate change?
Reduces carbon absorption
A. Increased drought
B. Increased wildfires
D. Reduced agriculture
What is the main cause of coral bleaching?
Warmer ocean temperatures