Question 1: Explain the greenhouse effect and how it contributes to global warming.

Answer: The greenhouse effect occurs when certain gases in the Earth's atmosphere, such as carbon dioxide and methane, trap heat from the sun. This trapped heat warms the planet, leading to global warming.

Question 2: List three human activities that have increased greenhouse gas emissions.

Answer: Burning fossil fuels (coal, oil, natural gas), deforestation, and industrial processes.

Question 3: Describe two ways climate change is expected to affect the UK’s weather patterns in the next 50 years.

Answer: The UK is expected to experience more frequent and intense storms and increased rainfall leading to flooding, as well as hotter summers with more heatwaves.

Question 4: Identify and explain one impact of rising sea levels on the UK.

Answer: Rising sea levels can cause coastal erosion and flooding of low-lying areas, threatening communities and infrastructure located near the coast.

Question 5: Describe the concept of climate resilience and give one example of how the UK could improve its resilience to climate change.

Answer: Climate resilience refers to the ability of communities and ecosystems to recover from climate-related impacts. An example is building flood defenses along vulnerable coastlines.

Question 6: Sketch a simple diagram showing the difference between weather and climate. Label the key elements.

Answer: A correct sketch would include two parts: one showing a weather chart with daily temperature, rainfall, and wind, and another showing a climate graph representing average temperatures and rainfall over a year. Labels should clarify 'Weather' as short-term atmospheric conditions and 'Climate' as long-term patterns.

Question 7: Describe how melting glaciers can impact sea levels and the UK’s coastline.

Answer: Melting glaciers add freshwater to the oceans, causing sea levels to rise. This can lead to increased flooding and erosion of UK coastlines, especially in low-lying areas.

Question 8: Suggest one action individuals can take to reduce their carbon footprint related to climate change.

Answer: Using public transport or walking instead of driving a car.

Question 9: Explain why reducing deforestation can help combat climate change.

Answer: Reducing deforestation helps because trees absorb carbon dioxide during photosynthesis, so fewer trees mean more greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, increasing global warming.