Global Climate Change
Liam Thomas
5 min read
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Study Guide Overview
This study guide covers past climates using ice core analysis, natural heat distribution via atmospheric and oceanic circulation, and future temperature projections based on computer models. It emphasizes the importance of positive feedback loops in polar regions, specifically melting ice and snow, habitat loss, and rising sea levels. The guide also includes practice questions and exam tips.
#🌡️ Climate Cycles: Heating Up & Cooling Down 🧊
#🕰️ Past Climates: Ice Core Secrets
Earth's climate has always been a rollercoaster, with big swings between warm and cold periods. How do we know? Scientists are like detectives, using ice cores to uncover the past! These cores, drilled from places like Antarctica, hold tiny bubbles of ancient air. 🌬️
- Ice Core Analysis:
- Snow compacts into ice, trapping atmospheric gases.
- Bubbles reveal past CO2, methane, and pollutant levels.
- Deeper ice = older samples = historical climate data.
High CO2 levels in ice cores correlate with warmer climates. It's like a historical thermometer! 🌡️
#🔄 Natural Heat Distribution
Earth doesn't heat evenly. The equator gets more sun than the poles. To balance things out, we have:
- Atmospheric & Oceanic Circulation:
- Warm air and water move from the equator towards the poles.
- Cool air and water return to the equator.
- Think of it like a global conveyor belt for heat!
Climate change can disrupt these natural circulation patterns, leading to unpredictable weather. 🌪️
#🌡️ Future Temperatures: Computer Models
Scientists use computer models to predict future warming based on different CO2 emission scenarios. 📈
- Projected Warming:
- Estimates suggest a potential 1.8°C te...
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