1. The “Greenhouse Effect”
Background Photograph Credit: National Geographic. Photographer-Paul Nicklen. Available at:
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2. Essential Questions? What is the “greenhouse effect”?
What causes the “greenhouse effect”?
What’s the big deal with the “greenhouse effect?”
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3. Enduring Understanding
The greenhouse effect is the rise in temperature on the Earth.
Certain gases in the atmosphere play a role in the “greenhouse effect”.
The greenhouse effect is important to mankind.
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4. Why is the “Greenhouse Effect” Important?
Without the “greenhouse effect”, the Earth would not be warm enough for humans to live. But if the greenhouse effect becomes too strong, it could make the Earth too warm, causing problems for humans, plants, and animals.
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5. What are “greenhouse gases”?
Gases in the atmosphere:
Water vapor
Carbon dioxide
Nitrous oxide
Methane.
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6. How do the “greenhouse gases” cause the “greenhouse effect”
When “greenhouse gases” in the atmosphere trap energy from the sun, this causes the Earth’s temperature to increase. This increase in temperature is known as the “greenhouse effect.”
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7. Do we really need “greenhouse gases”?
Yes. Without “greenhouse gases”, heat would escape back into space and Earth’s average temperature would be about 60ºF colder (brrrrrr). Because of how they warm our world, these gases are referred to as greenhouse gases.
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