Disruptions to the Carbon Cycle and Climate Change
This page focuses on the human-induced disruptions to the carbon cycle and their consequences, particularly the greenhouse effect and climate change.
Definition: The greenhouse effect is a warming of Earth's surface and the air above it, caused by greenhouse gases in the atmosphere that trap energy from the Sun.
The main disruptions to the carbon cycle include:
- Burning fossil fuels
- Deforestation
- Increase in human and animal populations
Highlight: These disruptions lead to an intensified greenhouse effect, which is the primary driver of global climate change.
The greenhouse effect involves greenhouse gases like CO2 and methane trapping heat in the atmosphere, leading to global warming and climate change.
Vocabulary: Climate change refers to long-term shifts in global weather patterns and average temperatures.
Evidence of global warming and climate change includes:
- Declining Arctic sea ice
- Rising sea levels
- Increasing global temperatures
- More frequent extreme weather events
- Warming oceans
- Glacial retreat
- Ocean acidification
- Decreased snow cover
- Shrinking ice sheets
Example: The retreat of glaciers in mountainous regions is a visible and measurable effect of global warming, impacting local ecosystems and water resources.
Understanding these disruptions and their effects is crucial for developing strategies to mitigate climate change and its impacts on the environment and human societies.
Quote: "The effects of fossil fuels on the environment are far-reaching and potentially catastrophic if left unchecked."
This page emphasizes the importance of recognizing human impacts on the carbon cycle and the urgent need for action to address climate change.
