Human activities which contribute to an increase in greenhouse gases in the — AQA GCSE Chemistry
Test yourself on Human activities which contribute to an increase in greenhouse gases in the with AQA GCSE practice questions.
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Human activities which contribute to an increase in greenhouse gases in the explained
Peer-reviewed evidence means research checked by other experts before publication.
Read the full explanation
Many scientists use this evidence to conclude that human activities, such as burning fossil fuels and farming livestock, increase greenhouse gas concentrations. These gases absorb infrared radiation, so more heat is trapped and the average surface temperature rises. This warming is expected to cause global climate change, including altered weather patterns, rising sea levels and shifts in habitats. For example, ice core data and temperature records show a correlation between rising carbon dioxide and global temperature. The statement uses ‘many scientists believe’ because scientific conclusions are based on the weight of evidence, not absolute proof.
Your focus
- Explain what peer-reviewed evidence is and why it is important.
- Describe how human activities can lead to an increase in surface temperature.
- Outline at least one expected consequence of global climate change.
Human activities which contribute to an increase in greenhouse gases in the exam tips
Marking Points
- Peer-reviewed evidence is research that has been checked by other scientists before publication.
- Human activities increase greenhouse gas concentrations, which strengthens the greenhouse effect.
- Increased greenhouse effect leads to a rise in average surface temperature.
- Rising temperatures are expected to cause global climate change, such as changing weather patterns and sea level rise.
- The conclusion is based on the weight of peer-reviewed evidence, so many scientists accept it.
Examiner Tips
- 💡Use the phrase peer-reviewed evidence to show you understand why the conclusion is reliable.
- 💡Link the increase in greenhouse gases to the enhanced greenhouse effect and then to surface temperature rise.
- 💡Give a consequence of climate change, such as melting ice or changing rainfall, to show understanding of global climate change.
Common Mistakes
- Stating that all scientists agree without qualification; correct this by saying many scientists accept the conclusion based on evidence.
- Confusing weather with climate; correct this by defining climate as long-term average conditions.
- Claiming the greenhouse effect is entirely human-made; correct this by explaining it is natural but enhanced by human activities.