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(a) Explain the physical causes of climate change - Scottish Highers Geography - Question 3 - 2023
Question 3
(a) Explain the physical causes of climate change. (b) Many strategies have been implemented to both reduce greenhouse gas emissions and to manage the effects of cl... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:(a) Explain the physical causes of climate change - Scottish Highers Geography - Question 3 - 2023
Step 1
Explain the physical causes of climate change.
Answer
Climate change is largely driven by several key physical factors that influence the Earth's climate. One of the primary causes is the increase in greenhouse gases due to human activities such as burning fossil fuels, deforestation, and industrial processes.
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Changes in the Earth's Orbit: Variations in the Earth's orbit over thousands of years can affect its climate. These changes include eccentricity (the shape of the orbit), axial tilt, and precession. Such variations influence the distribution of solar energy received by the Earth.
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Volcanic Activity: Volcanic eruptions release large amounts of ash and gases, including sulfur dioxide, which can lead to short-term cooling of the climate due to the reflection of sunlight away from the Earth.
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Solar Radiation: The Sun's intensity and radiation can vary, impacting the Earth's climate. Changes in solar output can influence long-term climate patterns.
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Ocean Currents: Ocean circulation plays a critical role in regulating the climate by distributing heat around the planet. Changes in these currents can lead to shifts in weather patterns and temperatures.
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Natural Greenhouse Effect: Naturally occurring greenhouse gases, like carbon dioxide and methane, trap heat in the atmosphere. An increase in these gases due to human activities exacerbates the natural greenhouse effect, leading to global warming.
Step 2
Describe strategies you have studied and
Answer
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Promoting Renewable Energy: Many countries are investing in renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, and hydroelectric power. These alternatives reduce dependence on fossil fuels and help decrease greenhouse gas emissions.
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Energy Efficiency Initiatives: Governments and organizations are implementing programs to improve energy efficiency in homes and industries. This includes using energy-efficient appliances and insulating buildings to reduce heating and cooling needs.
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Afforestation and Reforestation: Planting trees and restoring forests can absorb CO2 from the atmosphere. Initiatives focus on restoring degraded landscapes and promoting sustainable forestry practices.
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Waste Management Improvements: Programs aimed at reducing waste, promoting recycling, and converting waste into energy can minimize landfill emissions and enhance resource recovery.
Step 3
comment on their effectiveness.
Answer
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Renewable Energy: The transition to renewable energy has shown promising results, with many countries reporting significant reductions in carbon emissions. For example, Germany's commitment to solar energy has led to a substantial decrease in reliance on coal.
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Energy Efficiency: Enhancing energy efficiency can lead to immediate cost savings and reductions in energy consumption. Programs in Canada have resulted in a 20% reduction in energy usage in residential areas.
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Afforestation: While afforestation significantly helps in carbon sequestration, the overall effectiveness depends on maintaining these forests and ensuring biodiversity.
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Waste Management: Improved waste management systems have led to reduced methane emissions from landfills. For instance, the UK has implemented strategies that resulted in a 20% decrease in waste sent to landfills since 2007.