- Global average temperature has risen by 1.1°C since pre-industrial times
- CO₂ levels have increased from 280 ppm to over 420 ppm since 1880 (50% increase)
- Weather = short-term conditions (hours/days); Climate = long-term averages (30+ years)
- Sea levels have risen 23 cm since 1880 due to thermal expansion and ice melt
- Arctic sea ice is declining by 13% per decade
- Main human cause: enhanced greenhouse effect from burning fossil fuels
- Fossil fuel burning accounts for ~75% of human CO₂ emissions
- Deforestation contributes ~11% of global CO₂ emissions
This key facts covers Key Facts About Climate Change within Climate Change for GCSE Chemistry. Revise Climate Change in Atmosphere for GCSE Chemistry with 20 exam-style questions and 15 flashcards. This topic appears regularly enough that it should still be part of a steady revision cycle. It is section 5 of 17 in this topic. Use this key facts to connect the idea to the wider topic before moving on to questions and flashcards.
Practice questions for Climate Change
Which statement correctly describes the difference between weather and climate?
Explain three consequences of climate change for the environment or human populations. [3 marks]
Quick recall flashcards
How have CO₂ levels changed since 1880?
Increased from 280 ppm to over 420 ppm (a 50% increase)
At what rate is Arctic sea ice declining?
13% per decade