Human Activity & Climate Change Flashcards

All 8 cards in this deck

Name two human activities that increase the amount of carbon dioxide or methane in the atmosphere.

Burning fossil fuels (carbon dioxide) and livestock farming (methane).

Give two processes that cause the percentage of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere to vary from place to place or season to season.

Photosynthesis removes it; respiration and combustion release it.

What correlation is used as evidence that human activity is causing climate change?

As fossil fuel consumption and atmospheric carbon dioxide concentration have risen, global temperature has risen too.

Give two reasons why climate data carry uncertainty.

Measurements depend on the location where they are taken, and historical records are less accurate than modern ones.

True or false? A correlation between carbon dioxide concentration and global temperature proves that carbon dioxide causes the temperature rise.

False. Correlation does not prove cause; another factor could be responsible.

Give two potential effects on the climate of increased carbon dioxide and methane levels.

Rising global temperatures and rising sea levels (also more extreme weather).

Why does deforestation increase the amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere?

Trees absorb carbon dioxide for photosynthesis, so clearing forests leaves fewer trees to remove it from the air.

Give two ways of reducing carbon dioxide emissions.

Use more renewable energy sources (such as wind or solar power) instead of fossil fuels, and use energy more efficiently so less fuel needs burning.
e.g. insulating homes
Other valid answers include carbon capture and storage, and travelling less by car.