Global warming definition
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Understanding Global Warming: Definition and Key Concepts
Definition of Global Warming
Global warming refers to the long-term increase in Earth's average surface temperature due to human activities, particularly the burning of fossil fuels and deforestation. These activities release large amounts of greenhouse gases (GHGs) such as carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), and nitrous oxide (N2O) into the atmosphere, which trap heat and cause the planet to warm 123.
Greenhouse Effect and Its Role
The greenhouse effect is a natural process where certain gases in Earth's atmosphere trap heat, preventing it from escaping into space. This effect is crucial for maintaining the planet's habitable temperature. However, human activities have significantly increased the concentration of these gases, enhancing the greenhouse effect and leading to global warming 1237.
Major Greenhouse Gases
The primary GHGs contributing to global warming include:
- Carbon Dioxide (CO2): Released from burning fossil fuels, deforestation, and various industrial processes. It is the most significant contributor to global warming due to its high concentration in the atmosphere 134.
- Methane (CH4): Emitted from landfills, agriculture (especially from ruminant animals), and the production and transport of coal, oil, and natural gas. Methane is more effective than CO2 at trapping heat but is present in lower concentrations 237.
- Nitrous Oxide (N2O): Produced from agricultural and industrial activities, as well as during the combustion of fossil fuels and biomass 237.
Impacts of Global Warming
Global warming has far-reaching impacts on the environment and human society, including:
- Climate Change: Altered weather patterns, more frequent and severe heatwaves, increased rainfall, and more intense extreme weather events such as hurricanes and droughts 158.
- Sea-Level Rise: Melting glaciers and polar ice caps, along with the thermal expansion of seawater, contribute to rising sea levels, which can lead to coastal flooding and erosion 16.
- Economic Effects: Disruptions to agriculture, water supplies, and infrastructure, leading to economic losses and increased costs for adaptation and mitigation 26.
Mitigation and Adaptation Strategies
Addressing global warming requires both mitigation (reducing GHG emissions) and adaptation (adjusting to the changes already occurring). Key strategies include:
- Increasing Energy Efficiency: Reducing energy consumption through more efficient technologies and practices 13.
- Transitioning to Renewable Energy: Shifting from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, and hydroelectric power 134.
- Carbon Sequestration: Capturing and storing CO2 from the atmosphere or industrial processes 4.
Conclusion
Global warming is a critical environmental issue driven by human activities that increase the concentration of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere. Its impacts are widespread, affecting climate patterns, sea levels, and economies. Mitigation and adaptation strategies are essential to address and manage the effects of global warming, ensuring a sustainable future for the planet.
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