Which of the following is an important long-term (acting over spans of tens of millions of years)factor in global climate change?
A)decrease in albedo due to soot from volcanic eruptions
B)variation in Milankovitch orbital parameters
C)variation in the abundance of sunspots
D)atmospheric concentration of carbon dioxide

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The atmospheric concentration of carbon dioxide is a key factor in global climate change over spans of tens of millions of years. Increases in atmospheric CO2 trap more heat and lead to a warming effect on the planet. This is evidenced by the correlation between increased levels of CO2 and periods of warming in Earth's history, such as during the Paleocene-Eocene Thermal Maximum. Alternatively, decreases in atmospheric CO2 can lead to a cooling effect, as seen during the ice ages.

Which of the Following Is an Important Long-Term (Acting Over