Earth Science
Question 1

Click here to watch the NASA video Temperature Puzzle. Many people are quick to dismiss global warming after a cold winter or a late summer. After watching the video, how would you respond to this person? Why is it difficult to base climate on a single season’s weather? Use data and examples to support your answer. (Note: please base your discussion on what you have learned from the video and textbook reading. This is NOT meant to be a discussion of political ideology.)

QUESTION 2

In the picture below, explain why the balloons are rising in terms of atmospheric stability. What effect does water vapor have on atmospheric stability?

QUESTION 3
Compare and contrast weather and climate and how the atmosphere affects both.

QUESTION 4
Examine the graph below. In your own words, describe why we see a seasonal difference in CO2 concentration in the atmosphere.

QUESTION 4
Examine the figures below. Contrast the role the greenhouse effect plays in the atmospheres of (a) the Moon, (b) Earth, and (c) Venus.

QUESTION 5
Many people confuse the large void in the ozone layer with global warming. Can you distinguish between the two phenomena? Discuss the causes of each. Explain how each process may harm living things. (Refer to the additional reading for this Unit). Your response should be at least 200 words in length.