Create a new account

It's simple, and free.

Arguments Over Global Warming

There are two arguments over the issue of global warming. One says there may be only mild, if any, increases in global and U.S. temperatures, while another says that scientists who do not recognize the significance and dangers of global warming are funded by the industry. This research examines these two arguments. First, the case for worrying about global warming is offered. Second, the case against getting over-alarmed is defended.

The global climateù-considered the average weather, usually over a 30-year time periodù-can be influenced by both natural forces and human activities. ôClimate changeö refers to any change in climate over time whether due to natural variability or as a result of human activity. Natural changes in climate result from processes internal to the climate system, such as the complex transfer of heat, moisture and momentum between the atmosphere and ocean. Natural changes can also stem from external ôforcingsö of climate, such as changes in the SunÆs energy output or in the amount of volcanically-ejected gases and particles in the atmosphere. Climate change historically has occurred as a result of these natural forces, but is now occurring in part because of human activities.

The greenhouse effectù-which allows incoming solar radiation to pass through the EarthÆs atmosphere but prevents much of the outgoing infra-red radiation from escaping into outer spaceù-is a natural process. The natural greenhouse effect has kept the EarthÆs average surface temperature approximately 33 degrees Celsius (roughly 60 degrees Fahrenheit) warmer than it would be were there no atmosphere. Natural greenhouse gases include water vapor, carbon dioxide, ozone, and other trace gases. Without this natural greenhouse effect, life on Earth as we know it would not exist.

But much of this warming is occurring because humanity is affecting the atmosphere. Each year, billions of tons of carbon dioxide...

Page 1 of 13 Next >

More on Arguments Over Global Warming...

Loading...
APA     MLA     Chicago
Arguments Over Global Warming. (1969, December 31). In LotsofEssays.com. Retrieved 01:26, March 29, 2024, from https://www.lotsofessays.com/viewpaper/1692015.html