Question

THIS JUST IN: Satellite imagery shows that the Arctic ice cap is shrinking more quickly than was previously thought. Scientists predict this could have a major effect on Earth's climate in the next twenty years . . .

Temperatures on Earth have increased 1°F over the last century. This might not seem like a big change, but even slight global warming can have serious effects. Global warming causes changes in rainfall patterns around the world, resulting in droughts in some areas and floods in others. Global warming also causes the sea level to rise. As glaciers in the Arctic melt, the oceans

Answer 1

absorb their extra water. This can cause coastal flooding. It can also seriously affect freshwater biomes as salty water moves inland. Global warming can also be tied to health problems related to air pollution and heat stress.

So what causes global warming? Most scientists point to the Greenhouse Effect. The Greenhouse Effect involves gases, such as carbon dioxide and methane, that surround Earth. Normally, these gases trap just enough heat from the sun to make Earth comfortable for its inhabitants. However, when these harmful gases build up in the atmosphere, too much of the sun's energy is trapped against Earth, causing it to become warmer. Human activities, such as cutting down forests and burning fossil fuels, add these gases to the atmosphere.



As the Earth warms, people need to realize that their actions can contribute to or help prevent global warming. With everyone working together, global warming can be slowed down considerably. What can be done to lesson his problem?

Save Electricity
More often than not, coal is burned to create electricity. When coal is burned, carbon dioxide is released into the environment, which further damages the ozone layer. When people save electricity, they decrease the amount of coal burned to create power for homes. Simple activities, such as turning off lights and weather-stripping windows, can help make a home more energy efficient. Also, running a dishwasher only when it is full and using cold water to wash clothing can help the environment and decrease power bills.

Give Cars a Break
Reduce air pollution by walking, biking, or sharing rides around town. Also, take advantage of mass transit if it is available. Purchase cars that have good gas mileage and keep cars properly maintained.

Plant Trees
Nature can help prevent global warming. Trees and other plants absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. They also provide shade for homes, reducing the temptation to overuse the air conditioner in summer. Planting more trees and preventing the rain forest from being destroyed can help absorb more carbon dioxide and slow the Greenhouse Effect.

Recycle
Reuse and recycle what we can. This helps protect natural resources, such as trees, aluminum, and oil. Buy recyclable products or products that have limited amounts of packaging. Highly decorated packaging is nice, but the welfare of the environment is far more important.

Everyone on Earth can do his or her part to help protect the planet from global warming. These simple suggestions go a long way toward returning our world to the delicate balance that it needs.



What is a pre-reading question for this article?
a.How can planting trees help prevent global warming?
b.What is the atmosphere made up of?
c.What are fossil fuels?