Difficulty: Easy

Average Score: 87%

Which of these is an example of climate change caused by human activity?

Rationale

Higher average temperatures in cities than in surrounding countryside because of pavement and buildings in cities.

Urban heat islands are a phenomenon where cities experience higher temperatures due to human activities such as the construction of buildings and roads that absorb and retain heat, significantly impacting local climates.

A (Higher average temperatures in cities than in surrounding countryside because of pavement and buildings in cities) CORRECT

This choice exemplifies climate change caused by human activity, specifically through urbanization that creates heat islands. The extensive use of asphalt, concrete, and other materials in cities increases heat retention, leading to elevated temperatures compared to rural areas, thus directly linking human actions to climatic changes.

B (Differences in average rainfall because of matter in the air from volcanic activity) YOUR ANSWER

While volcanic activity can influence climate by releasing ash and gases into the atmosphere, this phenomenon is a natural process rather than one primarily driven by human actions. Therefore, it does not qualify as an example of climate change caused by human activity.

C (Higher average temperatures in the summer than in the winter) YOUR ANSWER

This choice describes a typical seasonal variation in temperature and does not reflect changes induced by human activity. The difference in temperatures between seasons is a normal climatic pattern, not a result of anthropogenic influences.

D (Differences in average rainfall from month to month) YOUR ANSWER

Similar to choice C, this option refers to natural variability in precipitation that occurs throughout the year. Monthly fluctuations in rainfall are part of typical weather patterns and not specifically attributable to human-induced climate change.

Conclusion

Human activities, particularly urbanization, significantly impact local climate conditions, as illustrated by the urban heat island effect. Among the provided options, only the increase in temperatures in cities due to human construction is a clear example of climate change driven by human factors. Other choices either reflect natural processes or standard climate variability, underscoring the distinct impact of anthropogenic activities on climate.

Related Questions

View all