Global warming is a rather complex phenomenon. To understand this, it is essential to investigate some processes that influence the planet’s climate. Global warming is in fact linked to the greenhouse effect. Satellite images are essential tools for monitoring changes in the Earth’s atmosphere, oceans and surface. The increase in carbon dioxide is the major contributor to human-induced global warming: it is strengthening the greenhouse effect and is leading to an increase in temperature on Earth.

Activity 1 – Greenhouse effect – what is it? In this first activity we study how a “greenhouse gas”, carbon dioxide (CO2), can influence the air temperature in a closed environment. We will try to answer the question: How does carbon dioxide influence the air temperature on Earth? The temperature in a closed environment is studied and the natural greenhouse effect is compared with the greenhouse effect enriched with CO2

Activity 2 – How changes in albedo can affect climate. The reflectivity of different surfaces (especially in color) is known as albedo. It plays an important role in the Earth’s climate. In this experiment how color influences the temperature of surfaces.

Activity 3 – How climate change can alter the pH of the oceans. When carbon dioxide (CO2) dissolves in seawater, carbonic acid is obtained, lowering its pH. Ocean acidification reduces the amount of carbonate, a key element in seawater. Ocean acidification is often expressed in terms of the pH of seawater