12. The Greenhouse Effect
The greenhouse effect is essential for maintaining the Earth's temperature and is influenced by various natural and anthropogenic greenhouse gases. Human activities such as burning fossil fuels and deforestation significantly increase the concentration of these gases, leading to global warming and climate changes. Acid rain, ozone layer depletion, and nuclear threats are also critical environmental issues that arise from pollution and human negligence.
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What we have learnt
- The greenhouse effect is necessary for life on Earth, maintaining average temperatures by trapping heat.
- Human activities have significantly contributed to the increase in greenhouse gas concentrations, intensifying global warming.
- Acid rain and ozone layer depletion are serious environmental issues with potential harmful effects on ecosystems and human health.
Key Concepts
- -- Greenhouse Effect
- The warming of Earth's surface caused by certain gases that trap heat in the atmosphere.
- -- Acid Rain
- Precipitation with a pH lower than 5.6, resulting from the oxidation of sulfur and nitrogen oxides that leads to environmental damage.
- -- Ozone Layer
- A region of Earth's stratosphere that contains a high concentration of ozone and absorbs most of the sun's harmful ultraviolet radiation.
- -- Nuclear Holocaust
- A hypothetical scenario where nuclear warfare leads to massive destruction and the near annihilation of human civilization.
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