Unit 7: Investigating Climate Change

Front

Carbon Cycle

Back

The process in which carbon atoms are cycled between abiotic and biotic factors on Earth.

Front

Greenhouse Gases

Back

Gases that trap heat in the atmosphere and re-radiate back to Earth’s surface.

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Urbanization

Back

The process through which cities grow; when human populations become more concentrated in urban areas.

Front

Deforestation

Back

Human destruction of natural forested areas.

Front

Natural Events

Back

An occurrence with no influence due to human impact.

Front

Biosphere

Back

The part of Earth that supports life, including all ecosystems and living organisms.

Front

Carbon Sources

Back

Substances that release carbon into the atmosphere, which include both natural processes and human activities.  EX: Volcanic eruptions, forest fires, decomposition, respiration

Front

Carbon Sinks

Back

Natural systems that absorb more carbon from the atmosphere than they release.

Front

Geosphere

Back

The solid part of Earth; including the crust, mantle and core.

Front

Hydrosphere

Back

The total amount of water on a planet, including water on the surface, underground, and in the air.EX: oceans, lakes, rivers etc.