What is the primary cause of global warming as hypothesized by scientists?

Prepare for the DSST Environmental Science Test. Access quizzes with multiple choice questions, hints, and explanations. Study effectively and succeed in your exam!

The primary cause of global warming, as hypothesized by scientists, is the increase in the Earth's average temperature, specifically due to the accumulation of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere. This increase in temperature is primarily driven by human activities such as burning fossil fuels, deforestation, and industrial processes, which release carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases. These gases trap heat in the atmosphere, leading to the greenhouse effect and consequently causing the planet's average temperature to rise.

While factors like population growth and deforestation can contribute to global warming by increasing greenhouse gas emissions, they are not the primary reasons for the phenomenon itself. Similarly, solar radiation does influence Earth's climate, but the current trend in global warming is more directly associated with anthropogenic emissions of greenhouse gases rather than changes in solar output. Thus, understanding the significance of rising average temperatures helps clarify the mechanism behind climate change and emphasizes the urgent need for actions to mitigate these emissions.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy