Climate System
The primary source of energy for Earth’s climate system is _____
The Sun
A significant increase or decrease in the Sun’s energy output will cause Earth to warm or cool. What do satellite measurements over the past 30 years show about the Sun’s energy output?
Changes in the Sun’s energy output are too small to cause recent warming on Earth.
What happens to organisms that are exposed to climate conditions outside their normal range?
The organisms will adapt, migrate, or die.
When Earth emits the same amount of energy as it absorbs, Earth’s energy budget is ______.
In balance.
What determines the amount of solar energy absorbed or radiated by Earth?
The composition of Earth’s atmosphere.
How is increasing atmospheric carbon dioxide affecting Earth’s ocean?
Increased dissolved carbon dioxide is causing the ocean to become more acidic.
True or False: The greenhouse effect is an abnormal condition caused by human activity.
False. The greenhouse effect is a natural phenomenon that keeps Earth’s surface at a temperature favorable to living organisms.
Do small increases in carbon dioxide concentration in Earth’s atmosphere make much difference to the climate system?
Yes; small increases in carbon dioxide concentration have a large effect on the climate system.
The overwhelming consensus of scientific studies on climate indicates that most of the observed increase in global average temperatures in the last 30 years is due to ___.
Human activities, primarily burning fossil fuels.
The annual cycle of seasons on Earth is the result of _____.
The tilt of Earth’s axis.
What natural processes reduce the amount of carbon in Earth’s atmosphere?
Accumulation of marine sediments and accumulation of plant biomass.
How does global climate change affect fresh water resources?
Changing precipitation patterns and temperatures will reduce access to fresh water for many people; winter snow and glaciers that provide water are declining.
Earth’s systems are connected, and a change in one system can influence the entire system. What do we call interactions that amplify the effects of change
Positive feedback loops.
How can life affect Earth’s climate?
By changing the chemical makeup of the atmosphere.
How may climate change affect human communities?
Human communities may face increased risks from violent weather, changes in food & water supplies, and infectious diseases.