Premium Essay

Global Warming Debate

In: Science

Submitted By jmajor
Words 625
Pages 3
The Global Warming Debate

Global warming is the increase in the average temperature of the earth. Scientists believe that it started in the mid 20th century.
The green house effect is the scientific belief that the earth is slowly getting hotter. Most scientists believe that this is due to the fact we have been polluting the atmosphere with damaging gases such as carbon dioxide, sulphur and methane. These gases have been building up in our atmosphere. When the sun shines on the earth its rays normally hit our planet and reflect back into space, however the gases we have polluted into our atmosphere often reflect the rays of light back onto the planet – thus heating it.
If the world temperature rose by a mere degree Celsius hundreds of cities across the world would flood. Part of the ice-caps would melt meaning the water-level would rise by at least 10 metres and animals that rely on the ice as a habitat (such as the polar bear) would become extinct.
Some scientists disagree with the theory of global warming as the temperature of the earth has been like this before humans polluted the atmosphere, in fact the temperature of the earth has been in a pattern over the past 300 million years. The pattern has been in an up and down wave, currently we are at the peak of a high in the average temperature of the planet.

An ice-age is periods of time were the average earth temperature falls which results in the ice-caps expanding out further south/north (depending on the poles). According to this definition we are still technically in an ice age as the Greenland and Antarctic sheets are still present.
Many scientists believe that greenhouse gases such as methane and carbon dioxide are responsible for global warming. These gases are formed when we burn fossil fuels (such as coal and petrol).
To protect our planets future we can help the atmosphere in many ways; we can

Similar Documents

Premium Essay

Global Warming Debate

...Global Warming Debate Humans have known about global warming for many years. MANY people think that our concern about carbon dioxide and global warming is a modern preoccupation driven by the attention of high-profile personalities, politicians and green activists. But Al Gore did not discover global warming. Nor did Tim Flannery, Peter Garrett, Greenpeace or Malcolm Turnbull. Scientific concern about global warming is not new. A single scientific paper, published more than three decades ago, can place the discussions about climate change into historical perspective. Tomorrow it will be 35 years since the leading science journal Nature published a review paper entitled "Man-made carbon dioxide and the 'greenhouse' effect", by the eminent atmospheric scientist J. S. Sawyer, director of research at the United Kingdom Meteorological Office. In four pages, Sawyer summarized what was known about the role of carbon dioxide in enhancing the natural greenhouse effect leading to warming at the earth's surface, and made a remarkable 28-year prediction of the warming expected to the end of the 20th century. His prediction can now be compared with what has been observed. We can also compare his review of the science in the early 1970s with that in the latest (2007) assessment from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change. After summarizing recent calculations of the likely impact of increasing carbon dioxide concentrations on global surface temperature, Sawyer concluded that...

Words: 855 - Pages: 4

Premium Essay

Global Warming Debate

...Humans have known about global warming for many years. MANY people think that our concern about carbon dioxide and global warming is a modern preoccupation driven by the attention of high-profile personalities, politicians and green activists. But Al Gore did not discover global warming. Nor did Tim Flannery, Peter Garrett, Greenpeace or Malcolm Turnbull. Scientific concern about global warming is not new. A single scientific paper, published more than three decades ago, can place the discussions about climate change into historical perspective. Tomorrow it will be 35 years since the leading science journal Nature published a review paper entitled "Man-made carbon dioxide and the 'greenhouse' effect", by the eminent atmospheric scientist J. S. Sawyer, director of research at the United Kingdom Meteorological Office. In four pages, Sawyer summarised what was known about the role of carbon dioxide in enhancing the natural greenhouse effect leading to warming at the earth's surface, and made a remarkable 28-year prediction of the warming expected to the end of the 20th century. His prediction can now be compared with what has been observed. We can also compare his review of the science in the early 1970s with that in the latest (2007) assessment from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change. After summarising recent calculations of the likely impact of increasing carbon dioxide concentrations on global surface temperature, Sawyer concluded that the "increase of 25...

Words: 881 - Pages: 4

Premium Essay

Global Warming Debate

...Global Warming Research The Global Warming is a reality that most of us overlook.The majority of the world population is in the dark about Climate Change. Global climate change has already had observable effects on the environment. Humans are emitting more carbon dioxide in the atmosphere, faster than the absorbing rates of plants and the oceans.As a result , the Earth's atmosphere is overloaded with heat-trapping carbon dioxide, which threatens climate with disastrous consequences. Global Warming has become the biggest environmental and humanitarian crisis of our time.There is still time to cease this environmental crisis , but we must act now.The global greenhouse gases are the main reason of this Global Warming disaster . We should create awareness of Global Warming because it is disrupting millions of lives in the forms of destructive weather patterns and loss of habitat. The most important cause of this problem is global companies and the industrialized countries like Japan, the United States that thanks to their businesses and their desire to win money every time ,by these means also pollute the environment. The gases that they emit are concentrating and are causing alterations in the climate that have been steadily increasing and according to the scientists it was since the industrial revolution because it was the moment in which man had more action on the nature.The emission of greenhouse gases will cause further warming and long-term changes in the components...

Words: 1199 - Pages: 5

Premium Essay

Global Warming: Fact or Fiction

...Global Warming: Fact or Fiction Skye Shaver American Intercontinental University-Online BUSN300-1203A-47 June 26, 2012 Dr. Albert Socci Abstract Global warming is a highly debatable subject. Within the scientific community, the only debate there is the rate of global warming. The debate is held among the scientific community and the politicians or common people. This essay will address some viewpoints of both sides of the global warming controversy. Global Warming: Fact or Fiction What is global warming? Greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide are released into the atmosphere on a daily basis as a result of human activities such as the burning of fossil fuels for energy consumptions or new technologies. Greenhouse gases in the atmosphere form a layer that inhibits the suns reflected light from leaving the Earth’s atmosphere. (Pasha, 2009) This makes the planet warmer, thus; global warming. Global warming is actually the increase in the average temperature of the Earth’s surface. (Pasha, 2009) The average temperature is just that, the average. Not all places will experience the same warming effects, but the average temperature increases. The impacts of global warming Global warming is causing the average surface temperature of the Earth to rise. According to Hawkes, the United States has experienced increasing temperatures of about .12 degrees Fahrenheit per decade since 1895. Globally, 2011 tied 1997 as the 11th warmest year...

Words: 936 - Pages: 4

Premium Essay

Global Warming

...Global Warming Mary Werner Lower Division Capstone IP#1 July 13, 2012 Global Warming Abstract: Global Warming has been around since the Ice Age, or so some think. Some people believe that Global Warming is a serious problem where others may argue it is nothing to concern ourselves about. In this report, we will read some thoughts of some FOX News fans and see their opposing thoughts and comments. We will also read the debate between 2 Doctors who have very different views about Global Warming. Global Warming Global Warming is the rise in the world’s stratosphere and oceans since the latter part of the nineteenth century. [1] From before the 1900’s, the worlds mean surfaced stratosphere has increased by about 0.8 °C (1.4 °F), increasing by 2/3 since 1980.[2] Global temperatures increase causing sea levels to rise drastically bringing changes to the amount and the pattern of our precipitation which then expands subtropical deserts.[3] In the Arctic, it is believed that Glaciers, permafrost and sea ice is believed to be caused by the warming. Some different types of heat waves could be droughts, heavy rain and changes in crop yields. From all around the world we continually see the degree in which warming varies.[4] If the word “global” means temperatures increasing to 4 °C (7.2 °F)”, then limitations for adapting to our physical bodies is most likely exceeding in most areas...

Words: 1530 - Pages: 7

Premium Essay

Business

...Abstract Global warming has been a big issue these days in past campaigns they use this as a platform for debates. Everyone is going green these days, even most cars are green they rely on electric or other forms of fuel. Neighborhoods and companies is hosting recycle drives for old computers and other electronic devices, recycling of paper to save trees, cans and plastics. They are trying to cut back on unnecessary waste. The greenhouse effect and the how in the ozone layer has brought on much concerns. Global Warming Real or Not Introduction Vice President Al Gore has accomplished many things in this lifetime including winning the Nobel Peace Prize in 2007 for his work “Informing the World of the Dangers Posed by Climate Change”. And during his time as Vice President he was an important member to President Bill Clinton’s economic team. (Nobel Prize.org, 2012). Outline: I. Global Warming: The Real Facts a. What is the truth about Global Warming? i. What is the definition of Global Warming? ii. What causes Global Warming? b. How does it affect Earth? iii. What are the signs of Global Warming? iv. How are the signs affecting Earth? c. How can Global Warming be stopped? v. What can us as people do to stop Global Warming? vi. How long will it take before we see the results of the efforts that have been taken to by the people? II. Global Warming: What is fiction? d. What is the debate...

Words: 1086 - Pages: 5

Premium Essay

Climate

...terrific amount of warming happening in the entire global climate. Researchers refer to the climate change as “global warming.” The research provided within this paper will conclude whether or not global warming is truly fact or fiction. The Oxford Reference Dictionary defines climate as the analysis of accumulated weather data for long term patterns and trends. Change is defined as, “To make or become different.” Combine those two words together the definition is “long-term weather patterns and trends becoming different over an extended period of time.” According to many researchers there has been a drastic change in climate temperatures. With their findings it is truthful that global warming is indeed happening before our eyes. Are these changes being caused by man? Ahrens C. Donald answers that question with, “changes in the climate can result from both natural events and human activities are causes of the warming. Examples of the natural causes of climate change are volcanic eruptions, variations in the earth’s orbit around the sun, and variations in solar output” (Ahrens, 485-491). There are also reasons for the climate change caused by humans. These examples include, industrial pollutants and fossil fuels (Rhodes, 116). After further ado, it is not solely contributed by man, the environment and natural causes play a huge role in it as well. Of course there are both sides to every debate. Some scientists believe there is no such thing as global warming. They believe...

Words: 700 - Pages: 3

Premium Essay

Global Warming: Crisis or Conspiracy

...Survey of Science and Technology in Society Global Warming: Crisis or Conspiracy What is global warming? Or climate change for that matter? How did it start? How will it continue? What will happen to humanity? Will it one day be gone, due to our own ignorance? These are some of the questions raised by a percentage of the society who believe in the facts and evidences presented by the scientists and environmentalists. While the other part of the society seem divided over this issue, these groups of skeptic individuals, strongly deny the theory that global warming is a big issue and require urgent attention. Their beliefs are based on scientific facts too. So what’s right and who’s wrong? The debate doesn’t seem to stop. To begin with, Global warming is the continuing rise in the average temperature of the earth’s climate system, forcing it to change. Though change in climate is nothing new for the earth, according to the evidence and facts provided by the article “Global Climate Change” posted in NASA’s official website, the Earth's climate has changed throughout history. Just in the last 650,000 years there have been seven cycles of glacial advance and retreat. Most of these climate changes are attributed to very small variations in Earth’s orbit that change the amount of solar energy our planet receives. The current warming trend, however, is of particular significance because most of it is very likely human-induced and proceeding at a rate that is unprecedented in...

Words: 1136 - Pages: 5

Premium Essay

Controversial Issues in Entertainment Paper

...of the story. Such specific controversial topics overtime to name which created this bias include: Freedom of Speech, African-American rights, women’s rights, racism, and the topic of In God We Trust vs. Freedom of Religion in America. These are just a few to name from previous years as today’s ethical issues include: war, same sex- marriages, legalization of marijuana, divorce, crime increase, equality, and Global Warming. The different forms of communication that have been used to reach the mass media overtime are the newspaper, telegraph, radio, magazines, television, and internet. The definition of the news can be classified into two concepts. “News and newsworthiness”, that means that the main objective of the press is to release information about significant changes that can affect a large group of people or possibly society as a whole (Vivian, 2011). Television reporter’s main intent is to always stay away from sounding biased, which means both debating parties should be presented in the story. An example of a current ethical issue with strong controversial debate is pollution, where there are two parties which fell they have credible evidence either proving humans are the main cause or due...

Words: 1574 - Pages: 7

Premium Essay

Global Warming and Climate Change

...Article Rebuttal: Global Warming and Climate Change Jeffrey Rohde BCOM/275 April 1, 2012 Edward D’Avola Global Warming and Climate Change A controversial and heavily debated topic in the media today is global warming and climate change. Countless articles have been written about the impact of global warming on the climate changes. A majority of the global warming claims are based on either human factors or natural cycles. I came upon a recent article by Nina Chestney titled “Global warming close to becoming irreversible”. The article claims the global warming is a result of “the world's temperature looks set to rise by six degrees Celsius by 2100 if greenhouse gas emissions are allowed to rise uncontrollably” (Chestney, 2012). The temperature increase is the result of human activities. The purpose of this essay is to challenge the claims made by the author of the article. The rebuttal will be made by analyzing the credibility and validity of the author and their claims. The author’s credibility on the subject can be debated because of the lack of references listed. The points presented are, in a relative sense, true, but highly generalized. The author claims “the world's temperature looks set to rise by six degrees Celsius by 2100 if greenhouse gas emissions are allowed to rise uncontrollably”(Chestney, 2012). The author fails support the claim with data. The article discusses several negative impacts on the global climate: loss of...

Words: 761 - Pages: 4

Premium Essay

Essay Outline

...ESSAY OUTLINE I. Opposing viewpoints on Global Warming A. Who or What is to blame? 1. Studies that humans lifestyles are related to global warming 2. Theories that affects are related to other environmental issues Climate change has caused the polar-regions which are located in the Arctic within the Northern Hemisphere and also in Antarctica which includes the Southern Hemisphere to gradually diminish their area of frozen land. A study was done that shows that due to the higher rate of reflectivity on ice the Arctic region will experience an accelerated rate of warming compared to other regions. (IPCC, 2007). The climate is the primary control of how ecosystems adjust to the environment, as global warming continues is affects and alters how the ecosystem coincides with natural resources and society. The ecosystem regardless of size is a vital part of life and without it various organisms and species of types like marine and land animals, insect and plant can become extinct. This endangerment can result in a global catastrophe that would affect mankind and the world as we know it. (IPCC, 2007). Natural disasters such as hurricanes, floods, tornados, tsunamis and earth quakes are believed by some to be related to global warming. Many experts believe that severe weather is a normal earthly event that is unable to be predicted or blamed on any particular reason. An increased amount of rain could cause mudslides and landslides destroying farms and natural resources...

Words: 542 - Pages: 3

Premium Essay

Global Wrming Fact or Fiction

...* Global Warming: Fact or Fiction Victoria Rock AIU Online BUSN300-1202A-15 Abstract This report will explore the topic of Global Warming in terms of fact or fiction surrounding the impact on the environment worldwide. The purpose of this report is to inform members of Congress about the two opposing viewpoints on this matter. * I. Background of Global Warming A. Impetus for the subject 1. Arguments for the topic 2. Arguments against the topic II. Discussion A. Melting Glaciers B. Unpredictable Weather III. Conclusion    I. Background of Global Warming One of the most debated topics on Earth is the issue of climate change or Global Warming. Global Warming fist became a concern in the 19th century when the industrialized revolution first began. Scientist believe that the increase use of fossil fuels and deforestation has caused greenhouse gases, which in turn has affected our climate temperatures. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, a national climatic data center, and the National Environmental Satellite, Data, and Information Service (NESDIS) are central to answering some of the most pressing global change questions that remain unresolved. A New York Times reporter said, “Global warming has become perhaps the most complicated issue facing world leaders [ (Global Warming & Climate Change, 2012) ]” The Natural Resources Defense Council says, “Climate change is the single biggest environmental and...

Words: 994 - Pages: 4

Premium Essay

Unit 1 Ip Busn 300

...Global Warming: Fact or Fiction AIU Lower Division Capstone BUSN 300 Outline Introduction/Thesis: I. History of Global Warming A. A driving force for the argument 1. A debate that global warming is in fact a fiction 2. A debate that global warming is a fact II. Argumentation A. The Melting Glaciers B. Weather that is Difficult to Follow Conclusion/Closing: Global Warming: Fact or Fiction For years the glaciers have been melting and catching people’s attention, this has resulted in the rise of over 6 in. in the sea level where as a hundred years ago it was much lower. This raises the question as to whether global warming is a fact or fiction. Literature on global warming is comprised mostly on intelligent discussion on having "too much caution on global warming" (Nature, 1991) or "global warming is real" (Kerr, 1989, p. 603) rather than fiction. Let me break this down for you people, society is using to much resources and energy in assuring ourselves that global warming is in fact an issue at all. The top debate in favor of global warming being fiction is the lack of scientific evidence connecting the emissions of greenhouse gases as a result of human activity with global warming (Brown, 2010, p. 26). First and for most any connection at all is completely uncertain and there is no proof. Then we also have, people in today’s that say global warming is a fact and say that society, "have caused a number of environment issues, such as global...

Words: 826 - Pages: 4

Premium Essay

Gobal Warming

...Global Warming: Fact or Fiction Abstract The purpose of this paper is to educate U.S. Congress on the facts and unreliable theories of the progression of global warming. What is global warming? The topic of global warming has been met with much controversy over the past several years. What is it, does it exist, and do the facts support the claims of greenhouse gases and high levels of CO2 created by emissions from fossil fuels. Or is there another explanation for the radical weather changes, which have increased severe storms, flooding, droughts and other extreme patterns across our great nation that has claimed many lives. In the following paragraphs we will analyze, and introduce information that can be used to evaluate the claims of global warming and the effects on our universal weather patterns, as well as introduce theories of others that indicates that global warming may not exist and isn’t a problem at all. Outline Thesis statement: 1. Background on global warming. A. Facts that support global warming does exist. 1. Analysis of research criteria done by NASA on the existence of global warming. 2. Additional information that substantiates claims that global warming is a fact. B. Seasonal changes and weather patterns linked to early migration and breeding. 1. Industrial Revolution CO2 levels associated with burning of fossil fuels, A. Changes in weather patterns and rising temperatures. B. Elucidation on the process...

Words: 1511 - Pages: 7

Premium Essay

Global Integration

...Global Warming: Fact or Fiction By Lorrie Fontanilla Professor John Hargiss BUSN300-1202B-55 April 27, 2012 Introduction: I. Definition of Global Warming A. What is Global Warming The Green House Effect Who is Responsible for Green House Emissions Debates on Global Warming A. Opposing Viewpoints 1. What do Scientists Agree on What do Scientists Disagree on Evidence of Global Warming A. Climate Changes 1. Melting Polarized Caps * 2. Rise in Sea Level * IV. Summary and Conclusion * A. Strategies to Abate Global Warming * 1. Individual Efforts * 2. Energy Conservation and Efficiency * 3. Political Position Global warming: fact or fiction Global warming is one of the most eminent scientific topics of the twenty-first century stimulating the precise configuration of society. Global warming inherently means there is a rise in temperature when the earth heats up. It sounds unpretentious in its term; however, it is an extremely complicated subject. It occurs when greenhouse gases; (carbon dioxide, water vapor, and methane) entrap the sun’s warmth and radiance in the earth’s environment which initiates temperature increases. (Global Warming, n.d.) The greenhouse effect is a result from the sunlight’s heat energy that is consumed by the earth and atoms in the earth's environment. This energy is customarily emitted in the direction towards space. However; due, to domestic living changes, the gases...

Words: 1337 - Pages: 6