Global Warming – Class 12 | Chapter – 16 | Biology Short Notes Series PDF

Global Warming: Global warming refers to the long-term rise in the average temperature of the Earth’s climate system. This increase in temperature is primarily driven by human activities, such as the burning of fossil fuels and deforestation, which release large amounts of greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. These gases trap heat from the sun and cause the Earth’s temperature to rise.

The consequences of global warming are widespread and include melting of polar ice caps and glaciers, rising sea levels, more frequent and intense heat waves, and changes in precipitation patterns. These impacts can lead to a range of problems, such as coastal flooding, droughts, and increased frequency of wildfires. Global warming also threatens ecosystems and biodiversity, as plants and animals struggle to adapt to the changing climate.

Causes of Global Warming

The primary cause of global warming is the emission of greenhouse gases into the atmosphere, primarily carbon dioxide (CO2) from the burning of fossil fuels (coal, oil, and natural gas) for energy and transportation. Other significant sources of greenhouse gas emissions include deforestation, agriculture, and industrial processes.

The burning of fossil fuels releases large amounts of CO2 and other greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. These gases trap heat from the sun, causing the Earth’s temperature to rise. Deforestation and other land use changes also contribute to global warming by reducing the amount of carbon dioxide that can be absorbed by trees and other vegetation.

In addition, human activities such as agriculture and industrial processes release other greenhouse gases, such as methane and nitrous oxide, which are also contributing to global warming. The widespread use of refrigerants and other industrial chemicals can also contribute to global warming by releasing potent greenhouse gases such as chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs).

Natural Causes of Global Warming

In addition to human activities, there are also natural causes that contribute to global warming. Some of these natural causes include:

  • Volcanic Eruptions: Large volcanic eruptions can release large amounts of ash and gases into the atmosphere, including carbon dioxide and sulfur dioxide. These substances can contribute to global warming by trapping heat in the atmosphere.
  • Changes in the Sun’s Energy Output: The sun is the primary source of energy for the Earth, and changes in its energy output can affect the Earth’s climate. While the sun’s energy output has been relatively stable in recent history, small fluctuations can cause changes in the Earth’s temperature.
  • Orbital Changes: The Earth’s orbit around the sun and its tilt on its axis can cause changes in the amount of sunlight received by different parts of the planet. These changes can cause fluctuations in the Earth’s temperature over thousands of years.
  • Plate Tectonics: Plate tectonics and volcanic activity can release large amounts of carbon dioxide from the Earth’s interior into the atmosphere, contributing to global warming.

Effects of Global Warming

The effects of global warming are widespread and can have serious impacts on the environment, human societies, and the global economy. Some of the most significant effects of global warming include:

  • Rising Sea Levels: As the polar ice caps melt and glaciers retreat, sea levels are rising, causing coastal flooding and erosion. This can displace coastal communities, damage infrastructure, and affect wildlife habitats.
  • Extreme Weather Events: Global warming can cause more frequent and intense heat waves, hurricanes, and other severe weather events, which can result in property damage, loss of life, and economic disruption.
  • Droughts and Water Scarcity: Changes in precipitation patterns and the melting of glaciers and snow cover can cause droughts and water scarcity in some regions, affecting agriculture and putting stress on water resources.
  • Impacts on Ecosystems and Biodiversity: Global warming can alter the range and distribution of plant and animal species, causing some species to become extinct and others to thrive. This can disrupt ecosystems and affect the services they provide, such as pollination and pest control.
  • Public Health Impacts: Rising temperatures can increase the incidence of heat-related illnesses, air pollution, and the spread of disease-carrying insects, such as mosquitoes.
  • Economic Impacts: The impacts of global warming, such as crop failures, infrastructure damage, and increased health costs, can have significant economic impacts, particularly in vulnerable communities and low-income countries.


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