Global warming — the steady increase in Earth’s air and ocean temperatures since the mid-20th century — is one of the most discussed and studied topics in the scientific community today. This kit introduces you to Earth’s climate and the issue of global warming with 23 hands-on experiments.
Since Earth’s formation, its climate has been constantly changing. Periods of warmer climate have alternated with ice ages. These changes happen over long periods of time. During the last few decades, a warming in the climate has been observed everywhere on Earth. While some warming may be due to natural phenomena, scientists predominantly attribute global warming to human influence. This kit gives you the basic knowledge you need to understand the climate, why it changes, and how our actions affect it.
First, learn about Earth’s climate system, weather, and atmosphere by conducting experiments with a model Earth and atmosphere. Explore the hydrological cycle to learn about humidity, clouds, and precipitation. Model Earth’s heat reservoirs, thermals, global and local winds, and ocean currents.
Next, learn how human activity influences the climate with experiments involving carbon dioxide and the greenhouse effect. Measure the effects that increased levels of carbon dioxide have on the temperature of air. Learn about how warming affects the Gulf stream.
Finally, investigate the potential consequences of global warming on humans, ecosystems, and the world’s economies. Learn what we can do to protect the climate.
The full-color, 48-page manual guides your experiments. Ages 10 and up.