📚 Topic Summary
Greenhouse gases trap heat in the Earth's atmosphere, leading to global warming and climate change. Key greenhouse gases include carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide. Ozone depletion, on the other hand, refers to the thinning of the ozone layer in the stratosphere, primarily caused by human-produced chemicals like chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs). This thinning allows more harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation to reach the Earth's surface. Addressing these issues requires reducing greenhouse gas emissions and phasing out ozone-depleting substances.
🌡️ Part A: Vocabulary
Match the term with its definition:
| Term |
Definition |
| 1. Greenhouse Gas |
a. A layer in the stratosphere that absorbs most of the Sun's harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation. |
| 2. Ozone Layer |
b. Gases in Earth's atmosphere that trap heat. |
| 3. Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) |
c. The gradual increase in the overall temperature of the earth's atmosphere generally attributed to the greenhouse effect. |
| 4. Global Warming |
d. A gas formed from three oxygen atoms ($O_3$), which protects the Earth from harmful UV rays. |
| 5. Ozone |
e. Chemical compounds formerly used in refrigerants and aerosols that contribute to ozone depletion. |
(Match the numbers to the letters)
✍️ Part B: Fill in the Blanks
Complete the following paragraph using the words provided: ultraviolet, carbon dioxide, climate change, stratosphere, emissions.
The increase of ___________ in the atmosphere is a major contributor to __________. The ozone layer, found in the ___________, protects us from harmful ___________ radiation. Reducing ___________ is crucial to mitigating these environmental issues.
🤔 Part C: Critical Thinking
What are some practical steps individuals and governments can take to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and protect the ozone layer? Provide at least three specific examples for each.