Thursday, March 23, 2017

NATURAL CAUSES OF CLIMATE CHANGE


Variation in solar output

1. Explain how does the varying amount of solar output affect global warming? [3]

        Magnetic field – The magnetic activity of the sun has a cycle that lasts about 11 years.


        Sunspots – An increase in solar radiation is due to an increase in sun spots.
       Areas surrounding the sunspots radiate more energy to make up for the cooler sunspot areas.

. Temperature – With higher solar radiation, earth’s temperatures will increase


Volcanic eruptions


2. Explain how does volcanic eruption affects global temperatures? [4]

a)     Gases released – Sulphur dioxide, carbon dioxide, hydrochloric acid, carbon monoxide, water vapor

b)     Global dimming –Gradual reduction in the amount of sunlight reaching the earth’s surface. Dust particles from eruption form condensation nuclei, creating more cloud cover. Dust and ash also reflect away incoming solar radiation.
c)     Effect on temperature -  Temporarily cools the earth for months or years
d)     Examples - Mount Pinatubo eruption lowered temperatures by as much as 0.6°C for as long as two years.


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