Earth Science Cast Review

Front

What is the greenhouse effect?

Back

The greenhouse effect is the process by which certain gases in Earth's atmosphere trap heat, preventing it from escaping into space, thus warming the planet.

Front

What are greenhouse gases?

Back

Greenhouse gases are gases that contribute to the greenhouse effect by absorbing infrared radiation. Key examples include carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), and nitrous oxide (N2O).

Front

What is the significance of carbon dioxide in climate change?

Back

Carbon dioxide is a major greenhouse gas that has increased due to human activities, leading to global warming and climate change.

Front

What is convection?

Back

Convection is the transfer of heat through the movement of fluids (liquids or gases) where warmer, less dense areas rise and cooler, denser areas sink.

Front

What is the process of stellar fusion?

Back

Stellar fusion is the process by which stars convert hydrogen into helium, releasing energy that powers the star.

Front

What is a transform boundary?

Back

A transform boundary is a tectonic plate boundary where two plates slide past each other, often causing earthquakes.

Front

What geological features are associated with transform boundaries?

Back

Transform boundaries are primarily associated with earthquakes due to the friction between sliding plates.

Front

What is half-life in radioactive decay?

Back

Half-life is the time required for half of the radioactive atoms in a sample to decay into a different element or isotope.

Front

How do you calculate the age of a sample using carbon-14 dating?

Back

To calculate the age, determine how many half-lives have passed based on the remaining amount of carbon-14 compared to the original amount.

Front

What is the role of the atmosphere in Earth's temperature regulation?

Back

The atmosphere regulates Earth's temperature by trapping heat through the greenhouse effect, allowing for a stable climate.