IB ESS SL Topic 6.1

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Atmosphere

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The layer of gases surrounding the Earth, essential for life and climate regulation.

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Radiation

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Energy that comes from a source and travels through space, which can be absorbed, reflected, or emitted by atmospheric components.

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Greenhouse Gases

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Gases in Earth's atmosphere that trap heat, such as carbon dioxide, methane, and water vapor.

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Radiative forcing

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The change in energy balance of the Earth's atmosphere system due to factors like greenhouse gases and aerosols.

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Aerosols

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Tiny particles or droplets suspended in the atmosphere, which can affect climate by scattering sunlight and influencing cloud formation.

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Troposphere

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The lowest layer of Earth's atmosphere, where weather occurs and where most atmospheric gases are found.

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Greenhouse effect

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The warming of Earth's surface due to the trapping of heat by greenhouse gases in the atmosphere.

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Enhanced Global Warming

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The increase in Earth's average surface temperature due to rising levels of greenhouse gases from human activities.

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Water vapor

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The gaseous phase of water, a significant greenhouse gas that contributes to the natural greenhouse effect.

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Methane

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A potent greenhouse gas with a global warming potential many times greater than carbon dioxide.