The gradual heating of Earth's surface, oceans and atmosphere is caus...
Global Warming:
Global warming refers to the long-term increase in Earth's average surface temperature due to the buildup of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere. This phenomenon is primarily caused by human activities, particularly the combustion of fossil fuels such as coal, oil, and natural gas.
Greenhouse Effect:
The greenhouse effect is a natural process that occurs when certain gases in the Earth's atmosphere trap heat from the sun and prevent it from escaping into space. This process is essential for supporting life on Earth, as it helps to maintain a relatively stable and habitable temperature. However, human activities have significantly intensified the greenhouse effect by releasing large amounts of greenhouse gases into the atmosphere.
Combustion of Fossil Fuels:
When fossil fuels are burned for energy production, they release carbon dioxide (CO2) and other greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. These gases act like a blanket, trapping heat from the sun and causing the Earth's temperature to rise. The combustion of fossil fuels is the primary source of carbon dioxide emissions, which is the most significant greenhouse gas contributing to global warming.
Human Activities:
Human activities such as industrial processes, transportation, deforestation, and agriculture also contribute to global warming by releasing greenhouse gases. For example, deforestation results in the loss of trees that absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, while the use of synthetic fertilizers in agriculture releases nitrous oxide, another potent greenhouse gas.
Consequences of Global Warming:
The consequences of global warming are far-reaching and include rising sea levels, melting glaciers and polar ice caps, more frequent and severe weather events, changes in ecosystems, and negative impacts on human health and livelihoods. It is crucial to address global warming by reducing greenhouse gas emissions, transitioning to cleaner energy sources, and adopting sustainable practices to mitigate its impacts and ensure a sustainable future for our planet.
The gradual heating of Earth's surface, oceans and atmosphere is caus...
Global warming is the unusually rapid increase in Earth's average surface temperature over the past century primarily due to the greenhouse gases released by people burning fossil fuels.
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