Welcome! Let's explore how human activities change Earth's climate and what we can do about it.
Climate change refers to long-term shifts in global temperatures and weather patterns. While Earth's climate has changed naturally over millions of years, human activities are now driving rapid changes.
When we burn fossil fuels like coal, oil, and gas for energy, we release greenhouse gases into the air. These gases, such as carbon dioxide, act like a blanket trapping heat around Earth.
Cutting down forests, also known as deforestation, makes the problem worse. Trees absorb carbon dioxide, so removing them leaves more heat-trapping gas in our atmosphere.
✏️ Worked example
Analyze how switching from coal energy to solar energy impacts greenhouse gas emissions.
Identify the source of energy: Coal is a fossil fuel, while solar energy comes from sunlight.
Analyze fuel burning: Coal power plants burn fuel, releasing large amounts of carbon dioxide.
Analyze solar power: Solar panels convert light directly into electricity without burning anything.
Compare emissions: Solar energy produces no direct greenhouse gases during power generation.
Conclude: Switching to solar energy reduces overall emissions and helps slow climate change.
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