Global Warming & Temperature

1.The difference in average global temperature between today and the last ice-age, 10,000 years ago, is only about 5oC. So why should we be concerned about the documented 0.8oC degree change instigated by humans?

2. If global warming causes Artic Sea ice to melt, what will be the effect on sea levels in a low-lying region like Houston? Think of three ways (discussed in chapter) life might change in our area with regards to this change in biome.

Interpreting data: A 2010 study compared the amount of CO2 emitted when a locally grown broccoli was delivered to Virginia Tech University vs. the amount of CO2 emitted when broccoli from California was delivered there. The Californian broccoli was delivered in shipments containing 768 lbs of broccoli, in a trailer that traveled 2,786 miles. Trailer fuel efficiency is 5 miles per gallon, and 20 lbs of CO2 are released per gallon of fuel burned. The local broccoli was delivered in shipments of 587 lbs of broccoli in a van that traveled 19.1 miles. Van fuel efficiency is 16 miles per gallon, and 20 lbs of CO2 are released per gallon of fuel burned.

1.Complete the following table to determine the CO2 emissions associated with delivering 1 lb of non-local broccoli. Show work below table!

Source of Broccoli	Miles per shipment	Gallons of Fuel burned per shipment	CO2 Released per shipment (lbs)	CO2 Released per lb of broccoli delivered
Non-local	2786	5 miles	20lbs
Local	19.1	16 miles	20lbs