Question 1: Describe two natural factors that can influence the Earth's climate.

Answer: Natural factors include volcanic eruptions, which can block sunlight and temporarily cool the climate, and variations in the Earth's orbit and tilt, which can affect seasonal and long-term climate patterns.

Question 2: Explain how increased levels of greenhouse gases contribute to global warming.

Answer: Greenhouse gases trap heat in the Earth's atmosphere by absorbing infrared radiation emitted from the Earth's surface, leading to a rise in global temperatures, a process known as the greenhouse effect.

Question 3: Identify and describe two human activities that have increased greenhouse gas emissions.

Answer: Burning fossil fuels such as coal and oil for energy production releases large amounts of carbon dioxide. Deforestation reduces the number of trees that absorb CO2, increasing the amount of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere.

Question 4: Describe three physical effects of climate change on the Earth's environment.

Answer: Physical effects include rising sea levels due to melting ice caps and glaciers, increased frequency and severity of storms, and higher average temperatures leading to more frequent heatwaves.

Question 5: Sketch a simple diagram showing the greenhouse effect. Label the key parts such as the Earth's surface, greenhouse gases, and incoming solar radiation.

Answer: A correct sketch would include the Sun emitting solar radiation towards Earth; some of this radiation is absorbed by the Earth's surface and then re-emitted as infrared radiation. Greenhouse gases in the atmosphere trap some of this infrared radiation, which warms the planet.

Question 6: Discuss two ways in which climate change can affect human life and communities.

Answer: Climate change can lead to more frequent and severe weather events such as floods and droughts, which can damage homes and reduce food and water supplies. It can also cause health problems related to heatwaves and the spread of diseases in warmer climates.

Question 7: Explain why polar regions are experiencing more rapid effects of climate change compared to other areas.

Answer: Polar regions are experiencing faster warming because of feedback mechanisms such as ice-albedo feedback, where melting ice exposes darker land or water that absorbs more heat, accelerating temperature rise.

Question 8: Describe what a climate model is and how it helps scientists predict future climate change.

Answer: A climate model is a complex computer simulation that uses mathematical equations to represent the Earth's climate systems. It helps scientists predict future climate changes by simulating how variables like greenhouse gas emissions, temperature, and sea levels may change over time.

Question 9: Sketch a basic diagram of a coastal area showing potential effects of rising sea levels.

Answer: A proper sketch would include a coastline with a sea level rising, leading to flooding of low-lying areas, erosion of beaches, and possible intrusion of saltwater into freshwater sources.