Ecology SOL Unit 8.4 - Climate Change

What is the greenhouse effect?

• The cooling of the Earth's surface

• The absorption and re-emission of infrared radiation by greenhouse gases

• The reflection of solar radiation by the Earth's surface

Answer explanation

The greenhouse effect refers to the process where greenhouse gases absorb and re-emit infrared radiation, trapping heat in the Earth's atmosphere. This is essential for maintaining the planet's temperature.

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What is one environmental impact of climate change?

• Decreased temperatures

• Increased water availability

• Increased temperatures affecting ecosystems

Answer explanation

One significant environmental impact of climate change is increased temperatures, which disrupt ecosystems. This can lead to habitat loss, altered species interactions, and changes in biodiversity.

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NGSS.HS-ESS2-4

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What percentage of the atmosphere is oxygen?

• 78%

• 21%

• 1%

Answer explanation

Oxygen makes up about 21% of the Earth's atmosphere. The majority, 78%, is nitrogen, while the remaining 1% consists of other gases. Therefore, the correct answer is 21%.

Which gas is present in the stratosphere and is harmless there?

• Carbon Dioxide

• Methane

• Ozone

• Nitrous Oxide

Answer explanation

Ozone is present in the stratosphere and plays a crucial role in absorbing harmful UV radiation. While it can be harmful at ground level, in the stratosphere it is harmless and essential for protecting life on Earth.

Which gas has a warming ability almost 300 times greater than carbon dioxide?

• Methane

• Nitrous Oxide

• Ozone

• Chlorofluorocarbons

Answer explanation

Nitrous Oxide has a global warming potential nearly 300 times greater than carbon dioxide over a 100-year period, making it a significant greenhouse gas compared to methane, ozone, and chlorofluorocarbons.

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NGSS.HS-ESS2-6

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What is the effect of shifts in distribution patterns of plants and animals?

• Leads to increased biodiversity

• Leads to extinction in cases

• Stabilizes ecosystems

Answer explanation

Shifts in distribution patterns can disrupt ecosystems, leading to habitat loss and competition for resources. This can result in extinction for some species that cannot adapt or migrate, making 'leads to extinction in cases' the correct choice.

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What is the role of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere?

• They cool the Earth's surface

• They absorb and re-emit infrared radiation

• They deplete the ozone layer

Answer explanation

Greenhouse gases play a crucial role by absorbing and re-emitting infrared radiation, which helps to trap heat in the atmosphere, thus warming the Earth. This process is essential for maintaining a stable climate.

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NGSS.HS-ESS2-4

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Which human activity contributes to methane emissions?

• Agriculture

• Solar variability

• Ocean currents

Answer explanation

Agriculture is a significant source of methane emissions, primarily through livestock digestion and manure management. Solar variability and ocean currents do not directly contribute to methane emissions.

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What is the primary natural cause of climate change mentioned?

• Industrial processes

• Volcanic eruptions

• Deforestation

Answer explanation

The primary natural cause of climate change mentioned is volcanic eruptions. These eruptions release large amounts of ash and gases into the atmosphere, which can significantly impact climate patterns.

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NGSS.MS-ESS2-6

What is the role of the atmosphere in climate control?

• It decreases the Earth's temperature.

• It contributes to the greenhouse effect.

Answer explanation

The atmosphere plays a crucial role in climate control by contributing to the greenhouse effect, which traps heat and keeps the Earth warm. This is essential for maintaining a stable climate.

Tags

NGSS.HS-ESS2-4