Recent Climate Change Chapter 14 Lesson 3

Regional and Global Climate Change Average temperatures have been increasing on Earth for about 100 years. The greatest warming has occurred in the Northern Hemisphere.

Human Impact on Climate Change The rise in Earth’s average surface temperature during the past 100 years is often referred to as global warming. Caused by releasing greenhouse gases into the atmosphere through burning fossil fuels and large scale burning and cutting of forests.

Greenhouse Gases Gases in the atmosphere that absorb Earth’s ongoing infrared radiation are greenhouse gases. It keeps temperatures warm enough on Earth for us to survive. Excess CO2 emissions are being caused by burning fossil fuels and deforestation. Deforestation is the large-scale cutting and/or burning of forests.

Human Impact on Climate Carbon dioxide occurs naturally in the atmosphere from erupting volcanoes and forest fires. A changing climate can present serious problems for society. Heat waves and droughts can cause food and water shortages. Excessive rainfalls can cause flooding and mudslides.

Climate and Society Climate forecasts can help government decide how to respond to future climate changes. A global climate model, or GCM. Is a set of complex equations used to predict future climates. This helps predict what the climate might be like in the future. We can reduce emissions by developing alternative sources of energy, using hybrid vehicles, build green (energy efficient homes), conserve fuel, and recycle.