Week 14: Causes of Climate Change - Science Methods II (Addy Junge)

 Addy Junge

Week 14: Causes of Climate Change

1. What did you do in lab today?​

  • In our lab this week, we discussed our agenda for the lab, then talked in our groups about our previous assignment, our interview with an elder. After we talked about our results, we went back on ICON to check out the Excel sheet with data on CO2 levels over the years. My group and I noticed the numbers would change from season to season, but saw a constant increase in the CO2 levels. After looking at the data, our class watched a video on the science of climate change, which talked about extreme weather, ice core data, how we can change our ways, and much more. We then touched on the greenhouse effect, along with a PheT lab on what actually happens with greenhouse gases when they enter Earth's surface. We ended our lab by talking about manmade forcings of greenhouse gases. 
2. What was the big question?
  • I would say the big question during our lab was "What have been the major factors of climate change over time?"
3. What did you learn in Thursday’s discussion?​
  • Here are my notes from our lecture:
4. Read the online textbook:
  1. What did you learn?​
    • Something I learned was that the Earth's atmosphere is very thin (60 miles wide), but it keeps the Earth's system balanced. Along with the lab and lecture, I learned about the various methods scientists use to track and report their data, such as using ice cores. I remember learning about the carbon cycle in elementary/middle school, but it was nice to get a refresher on all the aspects of it. 
  2. What was most helpful?​
    • The most helpful aspect of this chapter was the graphics, especially the ones that moved. It was also helpful to see cycles, such as the carbon cycle and the positive feedback loop, to help me understand climate change a bit more. Lastly, the statistics of the earth's differences in the past versus now help me better understand the rapid changes happening in today's society. 
  3. What do you need more information on?​
    • I would like to know more about how the asymmetry of the greenhouse gas molecules absorbs infrared radiation from the sun. With that, why can't symmetrical gases absorb infrared radiation?
5. What questions, concerns, and/or comments do you have?
  • An overarching concept I am struggling to understand is the albedo effect. How does it work?

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