Climate Change Glossary - Terms & Definitions

Climate Change Glossary - Terms & Definitions


Info

Greenhouse gases (GHGs) are gases in the Earth's atmosphere that trap heat, contributing to the greenhouse effect and global warming. They absorb and emit infrared radiation, warming the planet. The primary GHGs include:

  • Carbon Dioxide (CO2): Released from burning fossil fuels (Coal burning to produce electricity), deforestation, and industrial processes.
  • Methane (CH4): Emitted from agriculture (e.g., livestock), landfills, and natural gas production.
  • Nitrous Oxide (N2O): Produced from agricultural activities (e.g., fertilizers) and industrial processes.
  • Fluorinated Gases: Synthetic gases like hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) used in air-conditioning, refrigeration and industrial applications, with high global warming potential.





Warning

Seismic Waves - The waves which are generated during an earthquake are known as seismic waves. They are classified into 3 types:

1. Primary or Longitudinal waves are also known as P-Waves: These are longitudinal waves analogous to the sound waves. / Ether element 
2. Secondary or Transverse Waves are also known as S-Waves: These are transversal waves analogous to the light waves / Fire Element
3. Surface or Long-period Waves are also known as L-Waves: They originate when ‘P’ wave hits the surface.