Summary
The long-term rise in global average temperature caused mainly by human emission of greenhouse gases.
In depth
Global average temperature has risen about 1.1 to 1.2 °C since pre-industrial times. Evidence: temperature records, sea level rise, glacier retreat and ocean heat content. Impacts include more extreme weather. The Paris Agreement aims to limit warming to well below 2 °C.
Climate change differs from weather. Attribution studies link events to warming. Mitigation reduces emissions; adaptation prepares for impacts.
Key idea: scientific consensus attributes recent warming to human activity.
Frequently asked questions
What is Global Warming?
The long-term rise in global average temperature caused mainly by human emission of greenhouse gases.
Which area of biology covers Global Warming, and how advanced is it?
Global Warming is one of the 54 topics in Marine & Environmental Biology. It is rated Beginner, so it suits learners who are starting out in biology. Related topics in this area include Greenhouse Effect, Sea Level Rise, Thermohaline Circulation.
Can you give an example of Global Warming?
Arctic sea ice has declined in extent and thickness.
What should I learn before Global Warming?
Global Warming is a Beginner topic, so no earlier topic is required. Other Beginner topics in Marine & Environmental Biology that pair well with it include Oceans, Ocean Zones, Plankton.
What topics are related to Global Warming?
The closest topics to Global Warming are Greenhouse Effect, Sea Level Rise, Thermohaline Circulation, Marine Microplastics Biology. Comparing them side by side is a good way to see how the ideas connect.
How can I check that I understand Global Warming?
Read the summary and the in-depth section, then use the quick check on the interactive lesson for Global Warming. To practise the whole of Marine & Environmental Biology, use the Marine & Environmental Biology quiz.
How is Global Warming different from Greenhouse Effect?
Global Warming: The long-term rise in global average temperature caused mainly by human emission of greenhouse gases. Greenhouse Effect: Gases like carbon dioxide and methane trap heat in the atmosphere, warming the Earth. Read both side by side and note what each one explains.
How should I study Global Warming step by step?
First, read the summary and write the definition in your own words. Second, read the in-depth section and note any example. Third, compare it with Greenhouse Effect and explain the difference aloud. Finally, take the Marine & Environmental Biology quiz and come back to this page for any question you miss.