Increases in the Greenhouse Gases

Liam Thomas

8 min read

Listen to this study note

Study Guide Overview

This AP Environmental Science study guide covers climate vs. weather, the greenhouse effect and key greenhouse gases (CO2, CH4, N2O, H2O, CFCs), the role of the IPCC, and the environmental impacts of climate change (rising sea levels, spread of disease, ocean acidification, extreme weather, and biodiversity loss). It also examines sources of greenhouse gases (natural and human) and provides practice questions and exam tips.

#AP Environmental Science: Climate Change Study Guide 🌍

Hey there! Let's get you prepped for the AP Environmental Science exam. This guide is designed to be your go-to resource, especially the night before the test. We'll break down the key concepts, make connections, and get you feeling confident. Let's do this!

#1. Understanding Climate vs. Weather

Climate: Long-term (30+ years) weather patterns, including temperature and precipitation averages. Think of it as the 'usual' weather for a region. ☀️
Weather: Short-term atmospheric conditions. Think of it as what's happening outside right now. 🌧️

Key Concept

Climate change is about shifts in long-term averages, not just day-to-day weather.

#2. The Greenhouse Effect & Gases

Greenhouse Effect: A natural process where gases in the troposphere trap thermal energy, keeping Earth warm enough to support life. 🌡️
Greenhouse Gases (GHGs): Gases that trap heat. Increased concentrations lead to more trapped heat and higher average global temperatures.

#Key Greenhouse Gases:

Carbon Dioxide (CO2):
- Major contributor from fossil fuel combustion. 🔥
- Also from deforestation and industrial processes.
Methane (CH4):
- From agriculture (livestock), natural gas leaks, and landfills. 🐄
- More potent than CO2 over a shorter timeframe.
Water Vapor (H2O):
- A feedback gas; increases with warming temperatures.
- Natural part of the water cycle.
Nitrous Oxide (N2O):
- From agricultural practices (fertilizers), industrial processes, and fossil fuel burning.
Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs):
- Synthetic compounds, formerly used in refrigerants and aerosols.
- Phased out due to ozone depletion, but still potent GHGs.

Memory Aid

Remember "CO2, Methane, Water, N2O, CFCs" to quickly recall the main GHGs. Think of it as "Can My Wife Not Cook?"

#The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC)

Formed in 1988, a group of 3,000+ scientists.
Assesses climate change science, impacts, and risks.
Provides crucial data and reports for policymakers. 📝

markdown-image

Exam Tip

Be ready to discuss the IPCC's role and findings in FRQs. Focus on their data-driven approach and consensus on human-caused climate change. </...

How are we doing?

Give us your feedback and let us know how we can improve