8G: Environmental Impact Solutions Flashcard

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What are greenhouse gases?

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Greenhouse gases are gases in Earth's atmosphere that trap heat, contributing to the greenhouse effect. Common examples include carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), and nitrous oxide (N2O).

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What is the greenhouse effect?

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The greenhouse effect is the process by which greenhouse gases trap heat in the atmosphere, leading to an increase in Earth's average temperature.

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What is global warming?

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Global warming refers to the long-term rise in Earth's average surface temperature due to human activities, primarily the emission of greenhouse gases.

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What is renewable energy?

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Renewable energy is energy derived from natural sources that are replenished at a faster rate than they are consumed, such as solar, wind, and hydroelectric power.

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What is fossil fuel?

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Fossil fuels are natural substances formed from the remains of ancient plants and animals, including coal, oil, and natural gas, and are used as energy sources.

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What is resource depletion?

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Resource depletion is the consumption of a resource faster than it can be replenished, leading to a decline in the availability of that resource.

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What is a keystone species?

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A keystone species is a species that has a disproportionately large effect on its environment relative to its abundance, such as the sea otter in coastal ecosystems.

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What are the consequences of deforestation?

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Deforestation can lead to loss of biodiversity, disruption of water cycles, increased greenhouse gas emissions, and habitat destruction.

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What is biodiversity?

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Biodiversity refers to the variety of life in a particular habitat or ecosystem, including the number of different species, genetic diversity, and ecosystem diversity.

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What is carbon footprint?

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A carbon footprint is the total amount of greenhouse gases emitted directly or indirectly by an individual, organization, event, or product, usually measured in carbon dioxide equivalents.