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Updated Apr 22, 2026
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Understanding Climate Change and Global Warming
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What is Climate Change?
Ever wondered why your gran keeps saying "the weather's not what it used to be"? She's actually onto something! Climate change refers to long-term shifts in global weather patterns, whilst global warming is the specific rise in Earth's temperature due to extra greenhouse gases we're pumping into the atmosphere.
Here's something crucial for your exams: don't confuse weather with climate. Weather is what's happening outside your window today (like "it's lashing rain in Dublin"), but climate is the average weather over 30+ years (like "Ireland has cool summers and mild winters").
The greenhouse effect is actually natural and keeps our planet warm enough for life. The problem is the enhanced greenhouse effect - we're releasing extra greenhouse gases that trap too much heat, making Earth warmer than it should be.
Quick Tip: Remember that the greenhouse effect itself isn't bad - it's the enhanced version caused by humans that's the problem!
Understanding Greenhouse Gases
The main culprits warming our planet are greenhouse gases (GHGs). Carbon dioxide (CO2) is the biggest troublemaker, mainly from burning fossil fuels like coal, oil, and gas. Methane (CH4) comes from agriculture - yes, cow burps are actually a climate issue! Nitrous oxide (N2O) is released from fertilisers and car exhausts.
Your carbon footprint is basically how much greenhouse gas your lifestyle produces. Every time you switch on a light, take a car journey, or even eat a burger, you're adding to it.
Fossil fuels are natural fuels formed from ancient dead organisms - coal, oil, and natural gas. When we burn them for energy, they release all that stored carbon back into the atmosphere.
Exam Hack: Learn the three main greenhouse gases and their sources - this comes up loads in exam questions!
What's Causing Climate Change?
There are natural causes like volcanic eruptions and changes in solar output, but let's be honest - human activities are driving the rapid warming we see today.
Burning fossil fuels is the biggest cause. Every time we use electricity, drive cars, or run factories, we're releasing massive amounts of CO2. Deforestation is also massive - trees naturally absorb CO2, so when we cut down forests like the Amazon, we lose these natural carbon stores and often burn the wood, releasing even more CO2.
Agriculture might surprise you as a major cause. Livestock like cows produce methane, and nitrogen fertilisers release nitrous oxide. Even making cement releases loads of CO2!
The key thing to remember is that these are all connected to our modern lifestyle - the electricity in your school, the bus you took this morning, even your lunch might have contributed to climate change.
Think About It: Everything we do has a carbon cost - but understanding this means we can make better choices!
The Effects We're Already Seeing
Rising sea levels are happening because ice sheets are melting and warm water expands. This threatens coastal areas worldwide. We're also seeing more extreme weather - intense heatwaves, droughts, floods, and storms are becoming more common.
Here in Ireland, we're already experiencing changes. Increased flooding is a big one - you've probably seen Cork city centre underwater on the news. We're also facing potential water shortages despite all our rain, because summers are getting drier.
Irish farming is being affected too. Whilst milder winters might help some crops, droughts and floods can destroy others. Our farmers might need to completely change what they grow. Coastal erosion is speeding up around our coastline due to higher sea levels and stronger storms.
The scary part is that these effects are all connected - melting glaciers cause rising seas, which cause flooding, which damages coastal communities. It's like a domino effect that's already started.
Local Impact: Cork's flood defences are being upgraded right now because of climate change - this isn't some distant future problem!
Real Examples You Need to Know
Cork City flooding is a perfect Irish example. The city sits on the River Lee and already floods during high tides. As sea levels rise and rainfall gets more intense, these floods will get much worse. The government is building new flood defences, showing how we need to adapt to changes that are already happening.
Irish farming faces huge challenges. Our grass-based farming system for dairy and beef might struggle with more summer droughts and waterlogged winter fields. Farmers are already having to consider drought-resistant grass varieties or even switching to completely different crops.
For your exams, remember there are two types of solutions: mitigation (reducing the causes, like using renewable energy) and adaptation (dealing with the effects, like building sea walls).
Exam Gold: Always use specific Irish examples in your answers - mentioning Cork's floods or changes to Irish farming shows you understand how global issues affect us locally!
We thought you’d never ask...
What is the Knowunity AI companion?
Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.
Where can I download the Knowunity app?
You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
Is Knowunity really free of charge?
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
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4.7/5
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The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE Knowunity AI. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE Knowunity AI. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
Understanding Climate Change and Global Warming
Climate change is one of the biggest challenges facing our planet today, and it's definitely something that'll come up in your exams. Basically, it's about how human activities are making Earth warmer than it should be, causing major changes to... Show more
What is Climate Change?
Ever wondered why your gran keeps saying "the weather's not what it used to be"? She's actually onto something! Climate change refers to long-term shifts in global weather patterns, whilst global warming is the specific rise in Earth's temperature due to extra greenhouse gases we're pumping into the atmosphere.
Here's something crucial for your exams: don't confuse weather with climate. Weather is what's happening outside your window today (like "it's lashing rain in Dublin"), but climate is the average weather over 30+ years (like "Ireland has cool summers and mild winters").
The greenhouse effect is actually natural and keeps our planet warm enough for life. The problem is the enhanced greenhouse effect - we're releasing extra greenhouse gases that trap too much heat, making Earth warmer than it should be.
Quick Tip: Remember that the greenhouse effect itself isn't bad - it's the enhanced version caused by humans that's the problem!
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
Understanding Greenhouse Gases
The main culprits warming our planet are greenhouse gases (GHGs). Carbon dioxide (CO2) is the biggest troublemaker, mainly from burning fossil fuels like coal, oil, and gas. Methane (CH4) comes from agriculture - yes, cow burps are actually a climate issue! Nitrous oxide (N2O) is released from fertilisers and car exhausts.
Your carbon footprint is basically how much greenhouse gas your lifestyle produces. Every time you switch on a light, take a car journey, or even eat a burger, you're adding to it.
Fossil fuels are natural fuels formed from ancient dead organisms - coal, oil, and natural gas. When we burn them for energy, they release all that stored carbon back into the atmosphere.
Exam Hack: Learn the three main greenhouse gases and their sources - this comes up loads in exam questions!
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
What's Causing Climate Change?
There are natural causes like volcanic eruptions and changes in solar output, but let's be honest - human activities are driving the rapid warming we see today.
Burning fossil fuels is the biggest cause. Every time we use electricity, drive cars, or run factories, we're releasing massive amounts of CO2. Deforestation is also massive - trees naturally absorb CO2, so when we cut down forests like the Amazon, we lose these natural carbon stores and often burn the wood, releasing even more CO2.
Agriculture might surprise you as a major cause. Livestock like cows produce methane, and nitrogen fertilisers release nitrous oxide. Even making cement releases loads of CO2!
The key thing to remember is that these are all connected to our modern lifestyle - the electricity in your school, the bus you took this morning, even your lunch might have contributed to climate change.
Think About It: Everything we do has a carbon cost - but understanding this means we can make better choices!
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
The Effects We're Already Seeing
Rising sea levels are happening because ice sheets are melting and warm water expands. This threatens coastal areas worldwide. We're also seeing more extreme weather - intense heatwaves, droughts, floods, and storms are becoming more common.
Here in Ireland, we're already experiencing changes. Increased flooding is a big one - you've probably seen Cork city centre underwater on the news. We're also facing potential water shortages despite all our rain, because summers are getting drier.
Irish farming is being affected too. Whilst milder winters might help some crops, droughts and floods can destroy others. Our farmers might need to completely change what they grow. Coastal erosion is speeding up around our coastline due to higher sea levels and stronger storms.
The scary part is that these effects are all connected - melting glaciers cause rising seas, which cause flooding, which damages coastal communities. It's like a domino effect that's already started.
Local Impact: Cork's flood defences are being upgraded right now because of climate change - this isn't some distant future problem!
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
Real Examples You Need to Know
Cork City flooding is a perfect Irish example. The city sits on the River Lee and already floods during high tides. As sea levels rise and rainfall gets more intense, these floods will get much worse. The government is building new flood defences, showing how we need to adapt to changes that are already happening.
Irish farming faces huge challenges. Our grass-based farming system for dairy and beef might struggle with more summer droughts and waterlogged winter fields. Farmers are already having to consider drought-resistant grass varieties or even switching to completely different crops.
For your exams, remember there are two types of solutions: mitigation (reducing the causes, like using renewable energy) and adaptation (dealing with the effects, like building sea walls).
Exam Gold: Always use specific Irish examples in your answers - mentioning Cork's floods or changes to Irish farming shows you understand how global issues affect us locally!
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
We thought you’d never ask...
What is the Knowunity AI companion?
Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.
Where can I download the Knowunity app?
You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
Is Knowunity really free of charge?
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
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4.6/5
App Store
4.7/5
Google Play
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE Knowunity AI. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE Knowunity AI. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user