USA Climate Change Cause–Effect Quiz
Emissions → warming → impacts (10 questions).
USA Climate Change Cause–Effect Quiz: Quick Study Notes
Climate change in the USA is a critical environmental and societal challenge, driven by human activities and resulting in widespread impacts across the nation. Understanding the cause-effect chain—from greenhouse gas emissions to global warming and its subsequent consequences—is essential for addressing this complex issue.
Key Concepts
Primarily from burning fossil fuels for transportation, electricity, and industry. Carbon dioxide (CO2) is the main greenhouse gas emitted.
GHGs trap heat in the atmosphere, leading to a gradual increase in global average temperatures. This warming is amplified in regions like Alaska.
The US has experienced a noticeable increase in average temperatures over the past century, contributing to more frequent extreme heat events.
Consequences include sea-level rise, intensified extreme weather (droughts, floods, heatwaves, wildfires), impacts on agriculture, and ecological disruptions.
Key Takeaways
- Fossil Fuels are Key: The burning of coal, oil, and natural gas is the primary driver of US greenhouse gas emissions.
- CO2 Dominance: Carbon dioxide is the most abundant and impactful GHG in the atmosphere from human activities.
- Uneven Warming: While warming is global, certain US regions like Alaska are heating up much faster.
- Ocean’s Role: Oceans absorb significant heat and CO2, leading to thermal expansion and acidification.
- Diverse Impacts: Climate change affects US agriculture, coastal communities, ecosystems, and human health through various mechanisms.
- Extreme Weather: Increased frequency and intensity of extreme weather events pose significant risks across the country.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main sources of greenhouse gas emissions in the USA?
The main sources are transportation, electricity generation, industry, agriculture, and commercial/residential sectors, primarily from burning fossil fuels.
How has the average temperature in the USA changed over recent decades?
The average temperature in the USA has increased significantly over recent decades, with most of the warming occurring since the 1980s. This trend aligns with global warming patterns.
What are the observed impacts of climate change on US coastal areas?
US coastal areas are experiencing rising sea levels, increased tidal flooding, coastal erosion, and enhanced storm surge risks due to climate change.
How does climate change affect agriculture in the United States?
Climate change impacts US agriculture through more frequent and intense droughts, heavy rainfall leading to floods, changes in growing seasons, and increased pest outbreaks, affecting crop yields and livestock.
What is thermal expansion of water and why is it relevant to sea-level rise in the USA?
Thermal expansion is the process where water expands as it gets warmer. As oceans absorb more heat from global warming, the water volume increases, directly contributing to sea-level rise along US coastlines, independent of melting ice.
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