RQ32-Ecosys_glob

What is the difference between weather and climate? NOTE: Your assigned reading uses these terms, but the definitions are on page 1130.

Both are defined by temperature, precipitation, sunlight, and wind conditions. Climate consists of long-term trends while weather consists of short-term events.

Why is "greenhouse gas" an accurate way to describe CO2's behavior in the atmosphere?

It absorbs (i.e. "traps") energy from infrared radiation reflected from the Earth's surface.

Examine the data in Figure 53.17. Do they support the hypothesis that humans are causing increased CO2 concentrations?

Yes, because fossil-fuel burning and forest destruction release CO2.

In response to recent climate change, how is overall (global) NPP changing?

Decreasing on land; decreasing in the oceans.

Why is the U.S. considered a particularly important country in terms of lowering CO2 emissions?

It combines large population size with large per capita emissions.

Extensive and unusual cold snaps have occurred here recently. Is this evidence that global warming is lessening or not occurring?

No—although the long-term trend is for warming, short-term weather patterns can still be variable.

With respect to climate change, what is the difference between positive feedback and negative feedback?

Positive feedback increases CO2 levels in the atmosphere and ocean; negative feedback reduces CO2 levels in the atmosphere and ocean.

Why is "fossil fuels" an appropriate term?

They are derived from fossilized organisms.

What is phenology?

timing of seasonal events