Climate Change Flashcard

Front

What is the primary cause of the changes in the cryosphere observed today?

Back

Industrial activities.

Front

What technique involves analyzing the thickness of tree rings to reconstruct past climates?

Back

Dendrochronology.

Front

What can the study of pollen grains help scientists understand?

Back

Past vegetation and climate conditions.

Front

What is the study of past climates and climate change over long periods called?

Back

Paleoclimatology.

Front

What do air pockets in ice cores primarily provide information about?

Back

Atmospheric conditions and greenhouse gas levels.

Front

What is the cryosphere?

Back

The frozen water part of the Earth system, including glaciers, ice caps, and sea ice.

Front

What role do greenhouse gases play in climate change?

Back

They trap heat in the atmosphere, leading to global warming.

Front

What is the greenhouse effect?

Back

The process by which certain gases in the Earth's atmosphere trap heat, keeping the planet warm.

Front

What is the significance of studying ice cores?

Back

Ice cores provide historical climate data, including temperature and atmospheric composition.

Front

What is climate change?

Back

A long-term alteration in temperature and typical weather patterns in a place.