Natural Processes of Variations in Climate
Cyclical changes in Earth's orbit and tilt that affect the distribution of solar radiation
Milankovitch cycles
Cylinders of ice drilled from glaciers and ice sheets that contain a record of past climates
Ice cores
The burning of fossil fuels releases this greenhouse gas into the atmosphere, contributing to global warming
Carbon dioxide (CO2)
Shifting to energy sources like solar and wind power to reduce greenhouse gas emissions
Renewable energy
This NESA term means to state reasons for something or report on it
Account For
Large-scale atmospheric and oceanic circulation patterns that influence regional climates
El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO)
The study of tree rings to reconstruct past climates and environmental conditions
Dendrochronology
The clearing of forests for agriculture and other purposes reduces the Earth's ability to absorb carbon dioxide
Deforestation
Improving the energy efficiency of buildings and transportation systems
Energy conservation
This NESA term means to show how things are different or opposite
Contrast
The natural process by which the Earth's atmosphere traps heat, keeping the planet warm enough to sustain life
Greenhouse effect
Layers of sediment deposited over time that can reveal information about past climates and environments
Sedimentary records or Stratigraphy
This agricultural practice releases methane, a potent greenhouse gas, into the atmosphere
Livestock farming or Rice cultivation
Protecting and restoring forests to enhance carbon sequestration
Reforestation or Afforestation
This NESA term means to make a judgment based on criteria
Evaluate
Volcanic eruptions release this gas and particulate matter into the atmosphere, which can temporarily cool the planet by reflecting sunlight
Sulfur dioxide (SO2) and ash
The preserved remains or traces of ancient organisms that provide clues about past climates and ecosystems
Fossils
The expansion of urban areas can create these, which trap heat and contribute to localized warming
Urban heat islands
Developing infrastructure and practices to cope with the impacts of climate change, such as sea level rise and extreme weather events
Adaptation
This NESA term means to relate cause and effect
Explain
Variations in the Sun's energy output that can influence Earth's climate over long timescales
Solar variability or Solar cycles
The measurement and analysis of the isotopic composition of elements in natural materials to reconstruct past temperatures and environmental conditions
Isotope analysis or Paleoclimatology
Industrial processes release various pollutants, including these, which can have both warming and cooling effects on the climate
Aerosols
Capturing and storing carbon dioxide emissions from power plants and industrial facilities
Carbon capture and storage (CCS)
This NESA term means to suggest what may happen based on available information
Predict