Global Warming
A gradual increase in the average temperature of Earth’s atmosphere
Real World Example
Global warming refers to the gradual increase in Earth's average temperature, largely due to human activities like burning fossil fuels. Historically, this concept became more prominent in the late 20th century when scientists noticed rising temperatures and related it to increased carbon emissions. It was important because it highlighted the urgent need to address climate change to prevent extreme weather events and rising sea levels. Today, global warming still matters as it affects daily life through more frequent heatwaves, stronger storms, and shifting weather patterns. For example, if you live near the coast, rising sea levels could lead to flooding in your community, affecting homes and local businesses.