Question 1: Explain what is meant by the term 'greenhouse effect' and describe how it contributes to global warming.

Answer: The greenhouse effect is the process where certain gases in Earth's atmosphere, such as carbon dioxide and methane, trap heat from the Sun. This trapping of heat causes Earth's surface temperature to rise, leading to global warming.

Question 2: Identify two natural factors that can influence Earth's climate and briefly explain their effects.

Answer: 1. Volcanic eruptions: They release ash and gases that can block sunlight, leading to temporary cooling. 2. Solar radiation variations: Changes in the sun's energy output can increase or decrease Earth's temperature over time.

Question 3: Describe three human activities that have significantly contributed to climate change in recent times.

Answer: 1. Burning fossil fuels for energy and transportation, releasing large amounts of carbon dioxide. 2. Deforestation, reducing the amount of trees that absorb CO2. 3. Industrial processes that emit greenhouse gases and pollutants.

Question 4: Explain how melting glaciers and ice caps are evidence of climate change.

Answer: Melting glaciers and ice caps indicate rising global temperatures. Their reduction in size and volume are visible signs that the climate is warming, leading to rising sea levels.

Question 5: Describe the potential effects of rising sea levels on coastal areas.

Answer: Rising sea levels can cause flooding of low-lying coastal regions, erosion of beaches and land, loss of habitats, and increased risk of storm surges impacting communities.

Question 6: Draw a simple diagram illustrating the greenhouse effect. Label the key components such as the Sun, Earth's surface, greenhouse gases, and the atmosphere.

Answer: A diagram should show sunlight reaching Earth's surface, some heat being trapped by greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, and the overall process of heat being retained, leading to warming.

Question 7: Sketch a diagram to show how the increase in greenhouse gases could lead to more frequent and severe weather events.

Answer: A sketch should depict increased greenhouse gases trapping more heat, leading to an unstable climate system that causes more storms, heavy rainfall, and droughts.

Question 8: Describe two adaptation strategies that communities can implement to cope with the effects of climate change.

Answer: 1. Building flood defenses such as levees and sea walls. 2. Developing drought-resistant crops and water conservation measures.

Question 9: Explain the importance of reducing greenhouse gas emissions to mitigate climate change.

Answer: Reducing emissions slows down the greenhouse effect, helping to limit global temperature rise, prevent severe weather events, and protect ecosystems and human communities.

Question 10: Discuss the role of international agreements, such as the Paris Agreement, in combating climate change.

Answer: International agreements coordinate efforts among countries to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, set targets for renewable energy use, and promote sustainable practices, aiming to limit global temperature rise and mitigate climate impacts.