Climate change

Science

Definition

Climate change refers to long-term shifts in global temperatures and weather patterns. While natural factors can cause climate change, current rapid warming is primarily driven by human activities that increase greenhouse gas concentrations in the atmosphere.

Examples

  • Rising global temperatures are causing polar ice caps and glaciers to melt, raising sea levels
  • Increased CO₂ from burning fossil fuels has raised atmospheric CO₂ from 280 ppm (pre-industrial) to over 420 ppm
  • More frequent and intense hurricanes, droughts, and heat waves are linked to climate change

Related Terms

Greenhouse effect Global warming Fossil fuels Ocean acidification

Study This Concept

Practice climate change with free review games in these units:

AP Environmental Science Unit 9: Global Change