AP Environmental Science : Impact of Global Warming

Study concepts, example questions & explanations for AP Environmental Science

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Example Questions

Example Question #1 : Impact Of Global Warming

Global warming can be directly and indirectly linked to many of the environmental problems we face today. Which of the answer choices would be most indirectly linked to global warming?

Possible Answers:

Invasive species

Habitat loss

All of the other answer choices are caused directly by global warming

Acidification of the oceans

Correct answer:

Invasive species

Explanation:

The problems of invasive species occurs most often due to human activity, not due to a shifting global temperature average. Acidification of oceans are directly related to  levels in the atmosphere and therefore global warming. Global warming can also indirectly bring about the loss of habitats due to shifting precipitation levels and temperature averages within regions.

Example Question #1 : Impact Of Global Warming

How many periods of warming and cooling cycles have there been in the Earth's history?

Possible Answers:

Correct answer:

Explanation:

According to NASA, there have been 7 warming and cooling cycles in the past 650,000 years. The reason this cycle has so much publicity is due to the rapid increase of temperature during on overall cool period. The fact that the rate of warming is significantly faster, correlating with human development, is the reason so many scientists are concerned about global warming.

Example Question #2 : Impact Of Global Warming

Which of the following is not a projected issue following the furthering of global warming?

Possible Answers:

Faster spread of fungal diseases

Increased insect-borne illnesses

More deaths (maybe 2x more) due to asthma and bronchitis

All of these are potential issues

Correct answer:

All of these are potential issues

Explanation:

All of these are likely effects of continued global warming. Diminishing food and water supplies is also an important outcome to consider - this especially could lead to immigration issues regarding environmental refugees and other international crises.

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