Question

What is Global Warming ? What are its main causes ?

Hint:

Remember the key phrase 'greenhouse effect' when explaining global warming. The main greenhouse gas to remember is Carbon Dioxide (CO\(_2\)), primarily released by burning fossil fuels.

Answer 1

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Global Warming refers to the long-term increase in the Earth's average surface temperature due to human activities. It is a major aspect of climate change.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
What is Global Warming?
Global Warming is the phenomenon of a gradual rise in the average temperature of the Earth's atmosphere and oceans. This heating is caused by the increased concentration of certain gases in the atmosphere, known as 'greenhouse gases'. These gases trap heat from the sun that would otherwise escape into space, leading to a 'greenhouse effect' that warms the planet.
Main Causes:
The main causes of global warming are human activities that release greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. The most significant causes are:
1. Burning of Fossil Fuels: The combustion of coal, oil, and natural gas for electricity generation, transportation, and industrial processes is the largest source of carbon dioxide (CO\(_2\)), the primary greenhouse gas.
2. Deforestation: Trees absorb CO\(_2\) from the atmosphere. The large-scale cutting and burning of forests reduces this natural capacity to absorb carbon, releasing the stored carbon back into the air.
3. Industrial and Agricultural Activities: Certain industrial processes release potent greenhouse gases like methane (CH\(_4\)) and nitrous oxide (N\(_2\)O). Agriculture is also a major source, with methane being produced by livestock and rice paddies.
Step 3: Final Answer:
Global Warming is the long-term heating of the Earth caused by the trapping of solar heat by greenhouse gases. Its main causes are the burning of fossil fuels, deforestation, and emissions from industrial and agricultural practices.