Global environmental problems — A/L Biology

A. Global Warming and Climate Change Definition: Global warming refers to the long-term increase in Earth's average surface temperature due to human activities, primarily the emission of greenhouse gases, while climate change encompasses broader changes in climate patterns including temperature, precipitation, and extreme weather events. Explanation: Global warming is caused by the enhanced greenhouse effect where gases like carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide trap heat in the atmosphere. Human activities such as burning fossil fuels, deforestation, and industrial processes have dramatically increased these greenhouse gas concentrations. This leads to rising global temperatures, melting ice caps, sea-level rise, and altered weather patterns. Climate change refers to the broader consequences including changes in rainfall patterns, increased frequency of extreme weather events, and shifts in ecosystems. Think of it as: Think of Earth as a car parked in the sun with windows closed.