7th Grade Global Climate Change

Transcription

1 Slide 1 / 161

2 Slide 2 / 161 7th Grade Global Climate Change

3 Slide 3 / 161 Global Climate Change Climate and Weather The Greenhouse Effect Global Climate Change Anthropogenic Causes Natural Causes Impacts of Climate Change Climate Science Reducing Climate Change Mitigation Strategies Adaptation Strategies Click on the topic to go to that section

4 Slide 4 / 161 Climate and Weather Return to Table of Contents

5 Slide 5 / 161 Weather How did you decide how to dress for school today? Would need a jacket or could you wear shorts? Did you need to bring an umbrella? You might have watched the weather report on the news or checked your smartphone to help you make these decisions.

6 Slide 6 / 161 Weather The atmospheric condition at any given time or place is called weather. The weather can change hour to hour and day to day.

7 Slide 7 / 161 Weather Weather also changes season to season in many places on Earth.

8 Slide 8 / 161 Weather Brainstorm some terms that you associate with weather.

9 Slide 9 / 161 Weather Terms Did you come up with some of these terms? sunshine cloud cover rain sleet hail snow windy freezing rain thunder blizzard humidity heat wave fog

10 Slide 10 / 161 Climate Climate refers to the long term average weather conditions of a specific location. For example, Hawaii has a warm and humid climate year round. However, one day the weather might be overcast and rainy, while the next it is sunny and only partly cloudy.

11 Slide 11 / 161 Climate versus Weather Though weather is an expression of climate, they are not the same. Compare and contrast the weather and climate of your city. Write your thoughts below. Click here to watch a video on the differences between climate and weather.

12 Slide 12 / You walk to the bus stop and it suddenly gets really windy and overcast. This is an example of climate. True False

13 Slide 12 (Answer) / You walk to the bus stop and it suddenly gets really windy and overcast. This is an example of climate. True False Answer False [This object is a pull tab]

14 Slide 13 / Suppose that this summer was much hotter than last summer. Is this a sign that the climate is changing? Yes No

15 Slide 13 (Answer) / Suppose that this summer was much hotter than last summer. Is this a sign that the climate is changing? Yes No Answer No This is too short a time period to make the claim that climate is changing. [This object is a pull tab]

16 Slide 14 / Suppose that every winter for the past three decades has been warmer than usual. Is this a sign that the climate is changing? Yes No

17 Slide 14 (Answer) / Suppose that every winter for the past three decades has been warmer than usual. Is this a sign that the climate is changing? Yes No Answer Yes Because the observation is being made over a long time period. [This object is a pull tab]

18 Slide 15 / Climate is the long term average of weather conditions. This average is usually taken over. A a couple of days B several months C at least 20 years D at least one year

19 Slide 15 (Answer) / Climate is the long term average of weather conditions. This average is usually taken over. A a couple of days B several months Answer C at least 20 years C D at least one year [This object is a pull tab]

20 Slide 16 / 161 Climate Graphs Activity In your group, answer the questions about the following climate graph on your paper. The data on the graph is over a 30 year time period from daily extreme highs average daily extreme lows image from esrl.noaa.gov

21 Slide 17 / 161 The Greenhouse Effect Return to Table of Contents

22 Slide 18 / 161 Global Climate System To understand whether or not the climate is changing, we must first understand what causes our global climate. The global climate system arises from the interaction of sunlight with Earth's atmosphere, land, oceans, ice caps and other parts of Earth.

23 Slide 19 / 161 Solar Radiation Sunlight is energy in the form of radiation. The types of radiation emitted by the sun are ultraviolet (UV) waves and visible waves, or shortwaves. Why do you think these waves are sometimes referred to as short waves?

24 Slide 20 / 161 The Greenhouse Effect So what happens to all that solar radiation when it reaches Earth's atmosphere? image from ipcc.unibe.ch

25 Slide 21 / 161 Incoming Shortwave Solar Radiation About 30% of incoming solar radiation is reflected by clouds and Earth's surface. The amount of Earth's reflectivity is called albedo and is dependent on the surface. Some surfaces reflect better than others. For example, ice has a higher albedo than grass. Generally, objects that are closer to the color white reflect more or have a higher albedo than darker colored objects.

26 Slide 22 / 161 Incoming Shortwave Solar Radiation 50% of solar radiation is directly absorbed by Earth's surface and warms it. The remaining 20% of solar radiation is absorbed by the atmosphere. 2

27 Slide 23 / 161 Longwave Infrared Radiation After solar radiation is absorbed by Earth's surface and atmosphere, some of it is converted into infrared (or heat) waves. This type of radiation, which is a form of energy, is often called longwave radiation. Why do you think it is called longwave radiation when compared to solar radiation?

28 Slide 24 / The global climate system is influenced only by Earth's atmosphere. True False

29 Slide 24 (Answer) / The global climate system is influenced only by Earth's atmosphere. True False Answer False It is determined by the interaction of solar radiation with the atmosphere, land and ocean. [This object is a pull tab]

30 Slide 25 / Solar radiation is a type of energy composed of waves. (Select all that apply.) A infrared B UV C visible light D radio

31 Slide 25 (Answer) / Solar radiation is a type of energy composed of waves. (Select all that apply.) A infrared B UV C visible light D radio Answer B and C [This object is a pull tab]

32 Slide 26 / Over half of the incoming solar radiation is reflected by Earth's surface and clouds. True False

33 Slide 26 (Answer) / Over half of the incoming solar radiation is reflected by Earth's surface and clouds. True False Answer False Only about 30% is. 50% is absorbed by the surface and 20% is absorbed by the atmosphere. [This object is a pull tab]

34 Slide 27 / The amount of shortwave reflectivity from Earth's surface depends on the surface type. Another word for the amount of reflectivity from a surface is. A atmospheric ability B reflectability C albedo D UV reflection

35 Slide 27 (Answer) / The amount of shortwave reflectivity from Earth's surface depends on the surface type. Another word for the amount of reflectivity from a surface is. A atmospheric ability B reflectability C albedo D UV reflection Answer C [This object is a pull tab]

36 Slide 28 / Snow will have a higher albedo than grassland. True False

37 Slide 28 (Answer) / Snow will have a higher albedo than grassland. True False Answer True [This object is a pull tab]

38 Slide 29 / Some of the solar radiation that is absorbed by Earth and the atmosphere is converted into heat energy. True False

39 Slide 29 (Answer) / Some of the solar radiation that is absorbed by Earth and the atmosphere is converted into heat energy. True False Answer True Heat energy is the same as infrared radiation (or waves). [This object is a pull tab]

40 Slide 30 / 161 Outgoing Longwave Infrared Radiation Earth emits Infrared (IR) Radiation outward. Some of this IR radiation passes through the atmosphere back to outer space. 1 Some is absorbed by clouds and reemitted in all directions. 2 Most of the IR radiation is absorbed by greenhouse gases and re-emitted in all directions as heat. 3

41 Slide 31 / 161 The Greenhouse Effect Without greenhouse gases to absorb and re-emit Earth's infrared radiation, what would happen to the temperature on Earth? Come up with an idea with your group. Be prepared to explain. The primary greenhouse gases to remember are: Carbon dioxide Methane Nitrous Oxide Ozone Water vapor

42 Slide 32 / 161 The Greenhouse Effect To summarize the greenhouse effect simply: Some sunlight enters Earth's atmosphere and heats it.

43 Slide 33 / 161 The Greenhouse Effect Some of this heat escapes into outer space.

44 Slide 34 / 161 The Greenhouse Effect Some of this heat is trapped in the atmosphere acting to keep our planet warm and habitable.

45 Slide 35 / Most of the long wave radiation emitted by Earth escapes the atmosphere and goes back into space. True False

46 Slide 35 (Answer) / Most of the long wave radiation emitted by Earth escapes the atmosphere and goes back into space. True False Answer False Most is absorbed and reemitted by greenhouse gases. [This object is a pull tab]

47 Slide 36 / Which of the following is not a greenhouse gas? A carbon dioxide B methane C oxygen D nitrous oxides

48 Slide 36 (Answer) / Which of the following is not a greenhouse gas? A carbon dioxide B methane C Oxygen is in the atmosphere C oxygen but it is not a greenhouse gas because it does not absorb IR D nitrous oxides radiation. Answer [This object is a pull tab]

49 Slide 37 / Without greenhouse gases, Earth's temperature would be. A much higher B much lower C unchanged

50 Slide 37 (Answer) / Without greenhouse gases, Earth's temperature would be. A much higher B much lower C unchanged Answer B [This object is a pull tab]

51 Slide 38 / 161 Global Climate Change Return to Table of Contents

52 Slide 39 / 161 Global Climate Change The climate in a specific area such as Hawaii or Alaska is called regional climate. Global climate refers to the average climate around the entire world. How do scientists tell if global climate is changing? What data would they examine?

53 Slide 40 / 161 Global Climate Change It is not enough to look at a single event that seems abnormal from the normal conditions. One must look at decades worth of data to see if and how climate deviates from a normal condition. The deviation of something from a normal condition is called an anomaly. One key indicator of climate change is the anomalies of global temperature.

54 Slide 41 / 161 Is Global Climate Change Occurring? This graph shows the global temperature anomalies (or deviations) in degrees Celsius for the years Do you notice a pattern? How would you describe it? *graphs from pbs.org

55 Slide 42 / 161 Is Global Climate Change Occurring? This graph shows the global temperature anomalies over a much longer time period (1000 years). How does this graph compare to the previous one?

56 Slide 43 / 161 Is Global Climate Change Occurring? This graph shows the total concentration of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere from 1957 to 2000 (in parts per million). Can you think of reasons carbon dioxide would have increased this way?

57 Slide 44 / 161 Is Global Climate Change Occurring? This last graph shows the total concentration of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere for a 450,000 year record. What caused the patterns you see in this graph?

58 Slide 45 / 161 Anthropogenic Causes of Global Climate Change Return to Table of Contents

59 Slide 46 / 161 The Role of Greenhouse Gases Without greenhouse gases, Earth would be uncomfortably cold. But what happens when there is an overabundance of greenhouse gases? What causes this overabundance of greenhouse gases? Watch the following video. Some of it is review, but pay close attention so you can answer the questions afterwards. Click here to watch the video.

60 Slide 47 / Greenhouse gases are not needed in Earth's atmosphere. True False

61 Slide 47 (Answer) / Greenhouse gases are not needed in Earth's atmosphere. True False Answer False Some are needed in order to keep the planet warm enough for plants to grow and humans to live. [This object is a pull tab]

62 Slide 48 / If there are more greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, the temperature of Earth will increase overall because more heat is being trapped in the atmosphere. True False

63 Slide 48 (Answer) / If there are more greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, the temperature of Earth will increase overall because more heat is being trapped in the atmosphere. True False Answer True [This object is a pull tab]

64 Slide 49 / Which of the following are responsible for increased greenhouse gases in Earth's atmosphere? (Select all that apply.) A cars B factories C the sun D using electricity

65 Slide 49 (Answer) / Which of the following are responsible for increased greenhouse gases in Earth's atmosphere? (Select all that apply.) A cars B factories C the sun Answer A, B and D D using electricity [This object is a pull tab]

66 Slide 50 / Carbon dioxide is released when fossil fuels such as gas, coal and oil are burned. True False

67 Slide 50 (Answer) / Carbon dioxide is released when fossil fuels such as gas, coal and oil are burned. True False Answer True [This object is a pull tab]

68 Slide 51 / Which of the following are a consequence of increased greenhouse gases in the atmosphere? (Select all that apply.) A shorter days B melting glaciers C rising sea levels D changing snow patterns

69 Slide 51 (Answer) / Which of the following are a consequence of increased greenhouse gases in the atmosphere? (Select all that apply.) A shorter days B melting glaciers Answer C rising sea levels B, C and D D changing snow patterns [This object is a pull tab]

70 Slide 52 / 161 Anthropogenic Climate Change Climate change caused by humans is called anthropogenic climate change. This is a result of humans putting more greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. The major cause of this is burning fossil fuels. The three major forms of fossil fuels are coal, oil, and natural gas.

71 Slide 53 / 161 Fossil Fuels: Coal Used for: electricity cement production steel manufacturing

72 Slide 54 / 161 Fossil Fuels : Oil Used to make: transportation fuel plastics asphalt

73 Slide 55 / 161 Fossil Fuels: Natural Gas Used for: electricity heating buildings cooking transportation

74 Slide 56 / 161 Anthropogenic Sources of Greenhouse Gases This pie graph shows a percentage break down of the greenhouse gases emitted by anthropogenic (human) sources that are most responsible for climate change. image from epa.gov What greenhouse gas are humans releasing the most of? The least?

75 Slide 57 / 161 Activities that Contribute to Greenhouse Gases This pie graph shows a percentage break down of human activities that contribute to the major greenhouse gases emitted on the previous slide. image from epa.gov

76 Slide 58 / Humans increase greenhouse gases in the atmosphere by burning fossil fuels. True False

77 Slide 58 (Answer) / Humans increase greenhouse gases in the atmosphere by burning fossil fuels. True False Answer True [This object is a pull tab]

78 Slide 59 / The three main forms of fossil fuels are oil, natural gas and. A Solar B Coal C Electricity D Biofuel

79 Slide 59 (Answer) / The three main forms of fossil fuels are oil, natural gas and. A Solar B Coal C Electricity D Biofuel Answer B [This object is a pull tab]

80 Slide 60 / The greenhouse gas emitted most by human sources is methane. True False

81 Slide 60 (Answer) / The greenhouse gas emitted most by human sources is methane. True False Answer False [This object is a pull tab]

82 Slide 61 / Anthropogenic climate change means climate change that occurs due to human influences. True False

83 Slide 61 (Answer) / Anthropogenic climate change means climate change that occurs due to human influences. True False Answer True [This object is a pull tab]

84 Slide 62 / The human activity that contributes most to increased greenhouse gases in the atmosphere is electricity. What is the activity that contributes the next most? A agriculture B industry C transportation D businesses

85 Slide 62 (Answer) / The human activity that contributes most to increased greenhouse gases in the atmosphere is electricity. What is the activity that contributes the next most? A agriculture B industry C transportation D businesses Answer C [This object is a pull tab]

86 Slide 63 / 161 Natural Causes of Global Climate Change Return to Table of Contents

87 Slide 64 / 161 Solar Variation Recall that Earth gets it's energy from the incoming shortwave radiation from the sun. If the amount of solar radiation reaching Earth changes, climate can be affected.

88 Slide 65 / 161 Solar Variation: Sunspots Sunspots are dark, cooler than average regions on the sun's surface. The surrounding margin of a sunspot, however, is hotter than average.

89 Slide 66 / 161 Solar Variation: Sunspots Sunspot activity varies on a 12 year cycle. An increased number of sunspots are correlated to increased solar radiation. Why?

90 Slide 67 / 161 Solar Variations: Milankovitch Cycles Earth's position relative to the sun can also affect how much solar radiation reaches Earth. Milankovitch Cycles describe the regular variations in three categories for Earth : Orbital eccentricity Precession (wobble) Tilt

91 Slide 68 / 161 Solar Variations: Milankovitch Cycles image from universetoday.com (UCAR)

92 Slide 69 / 161 Solar Variations: Milankovitch Cycles How do you think each of these three factors affect solar variation on Earth?

93 Slide 70 / 161 Volcanoes Another occurrance which affects the climate are volcanoes. How do volcanoes change the climate?

94 Slide 71 / 161 Volcanic Dust The natural eruption of volcanoes releases large amounts of dust and gaseous materials into the upper atmosphere. The accumulation of volcanic dust and gas in the upper atmosphere primarily results in a net decrease in solar radiation reaching Earth because the dust and gas scatter and reflect it back to space. Can you see the dust in this picture? Look at the light rays. How would a decrease in solar radiation effect Earth's temperature?

95 Slide 72 / The three main natural causes of global climate change are volcanoes, Michigan cycles and sunspots. True False

96 Slide 72 (Answer) / The three main natural causes of global climate change are volcanoes, Michigan cycles and sunspots. True False Answer False Milankovitch Cycles [This object is a pull tab]

97 Slide 73 / The three main natural causes of climate change influence the amount of solar radiation that Earth receives. True False

98 Slide 73 (Answer) / The three main natural causes of climate change influence the amount of solar radiation that Earth receives. True False Answer True [This object is a pull tab]

99 Slide 74 / More sunspots on the Sun results in decreased solar radiation because sunspots are dark, cooler than average regions of the sun. True False

100 Slide 74 (Answer) / More sunspots on the Sun results in decreased solar radiation because sunspots are dark, cooler than average regions of the sun. True False Answer False Because sunspots are surrounded my a margin of much hotter than average temperatures resulting in a net increase in solar radiation. [This object is a pull tab]

101 Slide 75 / Sunspots on the Sun follow a cycle that repeats itself roughly every. A 5 years B 8 years C 12 years D 13 years

102 Slide 75 (Answer) / Sunspots on the Sun follow a cycle that repeats itself roughly every. A 5 years B 8 years C 12 years D 13 years Answer C [This object is a pull tab]

103 Slide 76 / The Milankovitch Cycle describes the natural and regular variation of Earth's: (Select all that apply.) A orbit around the sun B tilt C shape D precession

104 Slide 76 (Answer) / The Milankovitch Cycle describes the natural and regular variation of Earth's: (Select all that apply.) A orbit around the sun B tilt C shape D precession Answer A, B, D [This object is a pull tab]

105 Slide 77 / 161 Anthropogenic versus Natural Causes Scientists have used computer models to examine the role of different causes of climate change. Do the results from this computer model support the conclusion you came to in your groups?

106 Slide 78 / 161 Impacts of Climate Change Return to Table of Contents

107 Slide 79 / 161 Impacts of Climate Change The changing global temperature is the key indicator that climate is changing. However, there are other observed indicators that also have an impact on people and animals. Fill in your table as we go to help you with your homework. Let's first look at how climate change impacts the oceans.

108 Slide 80 / 161 Higher Temperatures As discussed earlier, rising global temperature is the main indicator that climate is changing. image from c2es.org

109 Slide 81 / 161 Warmer Oceans As the air temperature rises, the oceans absorb some of this heat resulting in warmer oceans and rising sea surface temperatures. image from epa.gov

110 Slide 82 / 161 Melting Ice Caps The rising atmospheric and oceanic temperatures cause ice caps to melt. Click on the image to the right to see how the Arctic ice cap has changed from 1980 to 2010.

111 Slide 83 / 161 Melting Ice Caps Ice has a high albedo (what did that mean?), so it reflects more solar radiation than grasslands and other biomes. What do you think happens to the amount of solar radiation reaching Earth when ice caps melt? How will this impact the temperature? Click on the image on the next slide for the answer.

112 Slide 84 / 161 Melting Ice Caps More solar radiation will reach Earth, causing a further increase in temperatures. This will further melt the ice caps which will then lead to more solar radiation reaching Earth... Do you see a cycle here? Melting ice caps are an example of a positive feedback mechanism for climate change. This is because the melting sea ice acts to further increase global climate change.

113 Slide 85 / 161 Melting Glaciers Glaciers are huge masses of snow and ice that have developed over a long time. When the temperature rises, glaciers also melt.

114 Slide 86 / 161 Rising Sea Level What happens when you leave a cup full of ice out and it melts? The same thing happens when ice caps and glaciers melt. This adds water to the oceans causing the sea level to rise. image from epa.gov

115 Slide 87 / The change in global temperature is the only way we know that climate is changing. True False

116 Slide 87 (Answer) / The change in global temperature is the only way we know that climate is changing. True False Answer False [This object is a pull tab]

117 Slide 88 / Over the last several decades, the coverage of the Arctic Sea Ice caps: A has increased and decreased equally over time B remains roughly the same C has dissappeared to nothing D has significantly decreased

118 Slide 88 (Answer) / Over the last several decades, the coverage of the Arctic Sea Ice caps: A has increased and decreased equally over time B remains roughly the same Answer C has dissappeared to nothing D D has significantly decreased [This object is a pull tab]

119 Slide 89 / Melting ice caps represent a positive feedback mechanism for climate change because they: A further enhance rising global temperatures. B have a higher albedo than grasslands. C absorb more solar radiation. D positively add to the ocean water.

120 Slide 89 (Answer) / Melting ice caps represent a positive feedback mechanism for climate change because they: A further enhance rising global temperatures. B have a higher albedo than grasslands. A C absorb more solar radiation. Answer D positively add to the ocean water. [This object is a pull tab]

121 Slide 90 / What causes the ocean's sea level to rise when global temperatures increase? (Discuss with your group, not a responder Students type question.) their answers here

122 Slide 90 (Answer) / What causes the ocean's sea level to rise when global temperatures increase? (Discuss with your group, not a responder Students type question.) their answers here Answer melting glaciers/ice caps [This object is a pull tab]

123 Slide 91 / Do both melting glaciers AND melting ice caps cause the ocean's sea level to rise when global temperatures increase? Yes No

124 Slide 91 (Answer) / Do both melting glaciers AND melting ice caps cause the ocean's sea level to rise when global temperatures increase? Yes No Answer Yes [This object is a pull tab]

125 Slide 92 / As the global temperature rises, the temperature of the ocean: A remains the same. B increases. C decreases. D increases but on average remains the same.

126 Slide 92 (Answer) / As the global temperature rises, the temperature of the ocean: A remains the same. B increases. C decreases. Answer B D increases but on average remains the same. [This object is a pull tab]

127 Slide 93 / 161 Impacts of Climate Change The changing global temperature also affects our weather and long term climate in a number of ways.

128 Slide 94 / 161 Increased Tropical Storms Tropical storms and hurricanes get their energy from the warm sea surface. When sea surface temperature increases, the frequency and strength of storms and hurricanes also increase. image from epa.gov

129 Slide 95 / 161 Changing Precipitation Patterns As the temperature rises, more water from the surface of Earth evaporates into the atmosphere. This provides more moisture to the atmosphere, leading to increased precipitation in some areas. This precipitation can be in the form of rain or snow. image from c2es.org

130 Slide 96 / 161 Drought Although some areas may receive higher than average amounts of precipitation due to increasing temperatures and evaporation from land, others may not. As a result, some areas experience drought conditions due to climate change.

131 Slide 97 / 161 Heat Waves Increasing temperatures are accompanied by extreme high temperatures and heat waves. A heat wave is an extended period of abnormally hot weather. Record highs now occur more often than record lows.

132 Slide 98 / 161 Wildfires With increased temperatures and areas receiving less precipitation than normal, wildfires are more frequent, larger, and last longer.

133 Slide 99 / 161 Consequences of Global Climate Change We should be concerned about climate change because it affects: agriculture (food supply, irrigation demands) human health (weather-related deaths, disease, air quality) ecosystems (forests, coasts, loss of species) water resources

134 Slide 100 / As the sea surface temperature rises, hurricanes and tropical storms: (Select all that apply.) A get stronger B occur more frequently C are not affected D get stronger but do not increase in frequency

135 Slide 100 (Answer) / As the sea surface temperature rises, hurricanes and tropical storms: (Select all that apply.) A get stronger Answer B occur more frequently A and B C are not affected D get stronger but do not increase [This object in frequency is a pull tab]

136 Slide 101 / Rising global temperatures lead to: (Select all that apply.) A increased sea surface temperatures. B an increase in precipitation everywhere. C more evaporation of water from Earth's surface. D less ice cap coverage.

137 Slide 101 (Answer) / Rising global temperatures lead to: (Select all that apply.) A increased sea surface temperatures. Answer B an increase in precipitation everywhere. A, C and D C more evaporation of water from Earth's surface. D less ice cap coverage. [This object is a pull tab]

138 Slide 102 / Droughts can deplete both food and water supplies. True False

139 Slide 102 (Answer) / Droughts can deplete both food and water supplies. True False Answer True [This object is a pull tab]

140 Slide 103 / Heat waves: (Select all that apply.) A can destroy crops. B affect human health. C may lead to more greenhouse gas emission. D are occuring more frequently due to climate change.

141 Slide 103 (Answer) / Heat waves: (Select all that apply.) A can destroy crops. Answer B affect human health. All answers are correct. (C due to the increased use of C may lead to more greenhouse gas emission. air conditioners which burn fossil fuels) D are occuring more frequently due to climate change. [This object is a pull tab]

142 Slide 104 / Due to climate change, wild fires are: (Select all that apply.) A larger. B less frequent. C last longer. D enhanced by drought conditions.

143 Slide 104 (Answer) / Due to climate change, wild fires are: (Select all that apply.) A larger. B less frequent. C last longer. Answer A, C and D D enhanced by drought conditions. [This object is a pull tab]

144 Slide 105 / Impacts of climate change are closely related and affect everyone. True False

145 Slide 105 (Answer) / Impacts of climate change are closely related and affect everyone. True False Answer True [This object is a pull tab]

146 Slide 106 / 161 Climate Science Return to Table of Contents

147 Slide 107 / 161 Climate Science It is clear that the changing climate can affect everybody world wide and we should work on reducing climate change. In order to effectively reduce the level of climate change, scientists must continue to increase our knowledge of climate change. Climate science involves: collecting data analyzing data forming conclusions peer review

148 Slide 108 / 161 Collecting and Analyzing Data One of the most compelling key indicators of climate change is the correlation between the global temperature and carbon dioxide concentrations. Scientists know that the global temperature concentrations are much higher than they were hundreds of thousands of years ago. Compare these graphs. What do you notice? image from epa.gov

149 Slide 109 / 161 Collecting and Analyzing Data Scientists also know that the carbon dioxide concentrations are much higher than they were all that time ago as well. Wait! How did scientists collect temperature and carbon dioxide data back when technology wasn't around?

150 Slide 110 / 161 Ice Cores Scientist use ice cores in the Antarctic to extract atmospheric data from up to 800,000 years ago! Much like tree rings, ice cores have layers- each layer representing an original snow layer from the past that eventually turned to ice.

151 Slide 111 / 161 Ice Cores Trapped in these ice layers are air bubbles that trapped the past atmosphere. Scientists analyze the carbon dioxide, hydrogen and oxygen in these air bubbles to reconstruct a historical climate record.

152 Slide 112 / 161 Ice Cores Click on the following link to see how scientists from the British Antarctic Survey collect ice core data in the Antarctic. Click here to watch ice core video.

153 Slide 113 / By learning more about our changing climate with climate science, we can more effectively reduce climate change. True False

154 Slide 113 (Answer) / By learning more about our changing climate with climate science, we can more effectively reduce climate change. True False Answer True [This object is a pull tab]

155 Slide 114 / Ice cores contain information about: (Select all that apply.) A the past climate B the age of the ice core layers C causes of climate change D past carbon dioxide concentrations

156 Slide 114 (Answer) / Ice cores contain information about: (Select all that apply.) A the past climate B the age of the ice core A, B layers and D Answer C causes of climate C is not change correct because scientists must graph and analyze the data to make D past carbon dioxide concentrations conclusions about causes of climate change. [This object is a pull tab]

157 Slide 115 / Each layer of an ice core represents a different atmospheric gas. True False

158 Slide 115 (Answer) / Each layer of an ice core represents a different atmospheric gas. True False Answer False [This object is a pull tab]

159 Slide 116 / 161 Collecting Data Other data that scientist collect include: weather observations hurricane tracking data sea surface temperatures from satellites precipitation amounts outputs from computer models

160 Slide 117 / 161 Analyzing Data and Forming Conclusions After scientists collect data, they analyze it by graphing it and/or comparing it with other data. Based on their data analysis, scientists make conclusions. What would you conclude from this graph?

161 Slide 118 / 161 Peer Review Before a scientist publishes their findings and conclusions for the public, their work must be peer reviewed. Peer review is when scientists review the work of other scientists. This is an important part of any science because it ensures that "good science" is being released to the public. Brainstorm what you think is meant by "good science".

162 Slide 119 / Recording the temperature and precipitation amount in a specific location every day can be used by climate scientists to study climate. True False

163 Slide 119 (Answer) / Recording the temperature and precipitation amount in a specific location every day can be used by climate scientists to study climate. True False Answer True This would be weather data that could be compared to historical climate data. [This object is a pull tab]

164 Slide 120 / Once scientists collect climate data, they announce their findings to the public immediately. True False

165 Slide 120 (Answer) / Once scientists collect climate data, they announce their findings to the public immediately. True False Answer False They must analyze, make conclusions and get peer reviewed first. [This object is a pull tab]

166 Slide 121 / Removing temperature records so that the climate data matches the needs of certain people is okay as long as the data that is presented is valid. True False

167 Slide 121 (Answer) / Removing temperature records so that the climate data matches the needs of certain people is okay as long as the data that is presented is valid. True False Answer False, this is bad science. Good science is based on facts and data that has not been manipulated to favor personal interests. [This object is a pull tab]

168 Slide 122 / 161 Reducing Climate Change Return to Table of Contents

169 Slide 123 / 161 Reducing Climate Change Humans are clearly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. Other than fires and floods, can you name any ways humans are affected by the impacts of climate change?

170 Slide 124 / 161 IPCC The Intergovermental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) is an international panel devoted to assessing the current state of climate change using the latest climate science. image from theguardian.com They also identify impacts of climate change on society and the economy. Scientific experts from all over the world contribute to the efforts of IPCC.

171 Slide 125 / 161 IPCC The reports that the IPCC release provide clear, unbiased information on the state of climate change and its impacts.

172 Slide 126 / 161 IPCC It is up to individual governments and institutions to decide whether or not to implement policies and strategies to address the status of climate change as reported by the IPCC.

173 Slide 127 / 161 IPCC The most recent assessment report from the IPCC conclude that: the observed warming of the past half-century is with strong certainty due to human influences there is a clear relationship between greenhouse gas emissions and observed impacts of climate change some impacts of climate change are irreversible and will require a siginificant reduction in greenhouse gases.

174 Slide 128 / 161 Mitigation and Adaptation The IPCC suggest two approaches to lessening human vulnerability to climate change. Mitigation involves making changes that reduce greenhouse gas emissions. What does mitigation mean? Adaptation involves altering human behavior to adapt to the changing climate that is inevitable.

175 Slide 129 / The role of the IPCC is to: (Select all that apply.) A implement policies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. B provide information on the current state of climate change. C review climate science contributed from experts. D examine the impact of climate change on the society and economy.

176 Slide 129 (Answer) / The role of the IPCC is to: (Select all that apply.) A implement policies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Answer B provide information on the current B, C and state D of climate change. C review climate science contributed from experts. [This object is a pull tab] D examine the impact of climate change on the society and economy.

177 Slide 130 / The most recent IPCC report indicates that humans are probably not responsible for the observed climate change. True False

178 Slide 130 (Answer) / The most recent IPCC report indicates that humans are probably not responsible for the observed climate change. True False Answer False [This object is a pull tab]

179 Slide 131 / Preventing the worsening of climate change by reducing the emission of greenhouse gas is known as. A mitigation B adaptation

180 Slide 131 (Answer) / Preventing the worsening of climate change by reducing the emission of greenhouse gas is known as. A mitigation B adaptation Answer A [This object is a pull tab]

181 Slide 132 / Adaption to climate change is necessary as some impacts of climate change are irreversible. True False

182 Slide 132 (Answer) / Adaption to climate change is necessary as some impacts of climate change are irreversible. True False Answer True [This object is a pull tab]

183 Slide 133 / 161 Mitigation Strategies Return to Table of Contents

184 Slide 134 / 161 Sources of Greenhouse Gases Recall the main activities that contribute to the greenhouse gases that are causing climate change.

185 Slide 135 / 161 Individual Contributions Here are four ways YOU can act to reduce greenhouse gas emissions: use less energy travel green watch your water use reduce waste Can your table come up with any other ideas?

186 Slide 136 / The activity that contributes most to the emission of greenhouse gases that change climate is electricity production. True False

187 Slide 136 (Answer) / The activity that contributes most to the emission of greenhouse gases that change climate is electricity production. True False Answer True [This object is a pull tab]

188 Slide 137 / Which activities help reduce greenhouse gas emissions? (Select all that apply.) A letting a car sit idle B turning off the lights when not in use C using paper plates and cups at a picnic D taking the bus

189 Slide 137 (Answer) / Which activities help reduce greenhouse gas emissions? (Select all that apply.) A letting a car sit idle B turning off the lights when not in use B and D C using paper plates and cups at a picnic D taking the bus Answer [This object is a pull tab]

190 Slide 138 / Using cold or hot water doesn't matter. The key to reducing greenhouse gas emissions is to just reduce water use. True False

191 Slide 138 (Answer) / Using cold or hot water doesn't matter. The key to reducing greenhouse gas emissions is to just reduce water use. True False Answer False Hot water requires additional electricity. [This object is a pull tab]

192 Slide 139 / 161 Clean Energy Technology One way to reduce greenhouse gas emission is to reduce our reliance on burning fossil fuels for energy by shifting to clean energy technology. Technology that uses clean energy emit little to no greenhouse gases into the atmosphere.

193 Slide 140 / 161 Solar Panels Solar panels convert sunlight directly into electricity. Solar panels produce NO pollutants or greenhouse gases. Solar energy is also a renewable source of energy meaning we won't run out of it like fossil fuels.

194 Slide 141 / 161 Geothermal Energy Geothermal power plants use the hot rocks deep below Earth's surface to generate steam which is used for electricity production. Geothermal power produces NO pollutants or greenhouse gases. Like solar panels, it is a renewable energy source.

195 Slide 142 / 161 Wind Turbine Energy Wind is used to turn turbine blades that are connected to a generator. The generator transfers energy into electricity. Wind turbines also produce NO pollutants or greenhouse gases and are renewable power sources.

196 Slide 143 / 161 Hydroelectricity Hydropower plants uses the energy of water falling over a dam to produce electricity. NO pollutants or greenhouse gases here either and again, this is a renewable power source.

197 Slide 144 / 161 Biomass Energy Biomass harnesses the sun's energy that is stored in plants. Biofuels such as ethanol come from biomass and produce less greenhouse gases when burned than fossil fuels.

198 Slide 145 / 161 Green Transportation Transportation is a leading source of greenhouse gas emission. To address this, car technology is changing to include: Fuel efficiency- cars can travel further on smaller amounts of gas. Electric motors- some cars use a motor that requires no gasoline and instead uses an electric battery Hybrid vehicles- use a combination of an electric battery with gas overall reducing gas consumption.

199 Slide 146 / A renewable source of energy is something that has a finite quantity. True False

200 Slide 146 (Answer) / A renewable source of energy is something that has a finite quantity. True False Answer False [This object is a pull tab]

201 Slide 147 / Which of the following are examples of renewable energy sources? (Select all that apply.) A solar B biofuels C wind D fossil fuels

202 Slide 147 (Answer) / Which of the following are examples of renewable energy sources? (Select all that apply.) A solar B biofuels C wind D fossil fuels Answer A and C [This object is a pull tab]

203 Slide 148 / Methods of energy production that produce little to no pollutants or greenhouse gases are called energy sources. A clean B new C better D Earth-wise

204 Slide 148 (Answer) / Methods of energy production that produce little to no pollutants or greenhouse gases are called energy sources. A clean B new C better D Earth-wise Answer A [This object is a pull tab]

205 Slide 149 / Which of the following produce NO pollutants or greenhouse gases? (Select all that apply.) A solar power B geothermal power C hybrid vehicles D hydropower

206 Slide 149 (Answer) / Which of the following produce NO pollutants or greenhouse gases? (Select all that apply.) A solar power B geothermal power C hybrid vehicles Answer A, B, and D D hydropower [This object is a pull tab]

207 Slide 150 / Alternative energy sources such as wind energy not only reduce greenhouse emissions but also help us decrease our dependence on non-renewable resources. True False

208 Slide 150 (Answer) / Alternative energy sources such as wind energy not only reduce greenhouse emissions but also help us decrease our dependence on non-renewable resources. True False Answer True [This object is a pull tab]

209 Slide 151 / Fuel efficient cars use biofuels to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. True False

210 Slide 151 (Answer) / Fuel efficient cars use biofuels to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. True False Answer False They use regular gas but are designed to travel further on smaller amounts of gas. [This object is a pull tab]

211 Slide 152 / 161 Adaptation Strategies Return to Table of Contents

212 Slide 153 / 161 Human Adaptation Taking measures to reduce greenhouse gas emissions will slow the rate of climate change. However, we are still vulnerable to the present impacts of climate change and must learn to adapt.

213 Slide 154 / 161 Examples of Human Adaptation moving to suitable areas that have reduced risks of floods planting crops suitable for different seasons building levees to protect against rising sea levels

214 Slide 155 / Humans can continue to live normally without worrying about climate change once they start implementing climate change mitigation strategies. True False

215 Slide 155 (Answer) / Humans can continue to live normally without worrying about climate change once they start implementing climate change mitigation strategies. True False Answer False Some impacts of climate change are irreversible and results of mitigation strategies are not instantaneous. [This object is a pull tab]

216 Slide 156 / refers to how society deals with impacts of climate change. A Adaptation B Mitigation

217 Slide 156 (Answer) / refers to how society deals with impacts of climate change. A Adaptation B Mitigation Answer A [This object is a pull tab]

218 Slide 157 / Climate change refers to actions that reduce greenhouse gas emissions. A adaptation B mitigation

219 Slide 157 (Answer) / Climate change refers to actions that reduce greenhouse gas emissions. A adaptation B mitigation Answer B [This object is a pull tab]

220 Slide 158 / Climate change mitigation refers to actions that reduce greenhouse gas emissions. True False

221 Slide 158 (Answer) / Climate change mitigation refers to actions that reduce greenhouse gas emissions. True False Answer True [This object is a pull tab]

222 Slide 159 / Which of the following are most definitely adaptation strategies? (Select all that apply.) A recycling and reducing waste B using drought resistant crops C building levees to protect coastal areas D taking public transportation

223 Slide 159 (Answer) / Which of the following are most definitely adaptation strategies? (Select all that apply.) A recycling and reducing waste Answer B using drought resistant crops B and C C building levees to protect coastal areas D taking public transportation [This object is a pull tab]

224 Slide 160 / All living beings are able to reduce their vulnerability to climate change by adapting to it. True False

225 Slide 160 (Answer) / All living beings are able to reduce their vulnerability to climate change by adapting to it. True False Answer False [This object is a pull tab]

226 Slide 161 / 161