When Did People First Believe It Possible? - History Of Climate Change Research

The video discusses the historical and modern understanding of climate change. Initially, humans recognized their ability to alter local climates through activities like deforestation and marsh drainage. By the 16th century, it was common knowledge that humans could impact local climates, but large-scale climate change was not considered. Modern theories, emerging in the 19th century, introduced concepts like carbon dioxide emissions and heat radiation, leading to a deeper understanding of global climate dynamics.

How do human activities like tilling and changing hydrology affect local climates?

• They increase the amount of rainfall.

• They alter humidity and temperature.

• They have no effect on the climate.

• They cause earthquakes.

What was a common belief about human influence on climate by the 16th century?

• Humans could change global climate patterns.

• Humans could alter local climates.

• Humans could control the weather.

• Humans had no impact on the climate.

What did early scientific observations reveal about heat waves?

• They were a myth.

• They were unrelated to light waves.

• They could be reflected and refracted.

• They could only be absorbed.

By the early 19th century, what were scientists theorizing about?

• The color of the sky.

• The temperature of the Earth.

• The shape of the Earth.

• The speed of sound.

What is a modern understanding of human impact on climate?

• Climate change is a natural process unaffected by humans.

• Carbon dioxide emissions influence global climate.

• Humans can only affect local climates.

• Humans have no impact on climate.