Question 1: Explain what is meant by the term 'climate change'. Include at least two main causes of modern climate change.

Answer: Climate change refers to long-term changes in global weather patterns, primarily caused by human activities such as burning fossil fuels and deforestation, which increase greenhouse gases in the atmosphere.

Question 2: Describe how an increase in global temperature can affect sea levels.

Answer: Rising global temperatures cause polar ice caps and glaciers to melt, leading to an increase in sea levels and the flooding of coastal areas.

Question 3: Identify and explain two physical effects of climate change on weather patterns.

Answer: Climate change can lead to more intense storms and increased frequency of droughts, because warmer temperatures contribute to more extreme weather events and changes in precipitation patterns.

Question 4: Discuss how rising temperatures can impact agricultural productivity in a specific region of your choice.

Answer: In regions like Sub-Saharan Africa, higher temperatures can lead to reduced rainfall and droughts, damaging crops, decreasing yields, and threatening food security.

Question 5: Describe the process and effects of melting permafrost in Arctic regions.

Answer: Melting permafrost occurs as temperatures rise, releasing stored greenhouse gases like methane, which further accelerates climate change, and causing ground instability that damages ecosystems and infrastructure.

Question 6: Sketch a simple diagram to show the greenhouse effect, labeling the key components involved.

Answer: A correct sketch would depict the sun sending rays toward Earth, with some radiation reflected back, and greenhouse gases trapping some of the heat in the atmosphere, preventing it from escaping into space.

Question 7: Explain the concept of 'feedback loops' in climate change, providing an example.

Answer: Feedback loops are processes where a change causes a further change in the same direction. For example, melting ice reduces reflectivity, causing more heat absorption and further warming.

Question 8: Identify and describe one physical indicator that climate change is occurring in your local area.

Answer: An example could be increased frequency of heatwaves, which indicates rising temperatures consistent with global climate change.

Question 9: Draw a cross-section of the Earth's atmosphere showing the layers affected by climate change, and indicate where greenhouse gases are concentrated.

Answer: The drawing should show the Earth's surface, troposphere, stratosphere, and above. Greenhouse gases are primarily concentrated in the troposphere, trapping heat.

Question 10: Evaluate two possible actions that could reduce the impact of climate change on a global scale.

Answer: Actions include transitioning to renewable energy sources like wind and solar, and implementing policies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions globally.

Question 11: Describe how climate change might affect natural ecosystems and biodiversity.

Answer: Climate change can alter habitats, leading to loss of species unable to adapt quickly, and disrupting food chains and ecosystem stability.