Question

In reviewing historical records and ice core data, researchers noted that atmospheric CO2 levels started to rise as humans began to burn fossil fuels. This is an example of what type of relationship

Answer 1

The relationship between the rise in atmospheric CO2 levels and human fossil fuel burning is an example of a **cause-and-effect relationship** or **causal relationship**. In this case, the burning of fossil fuels by humans is the cause, and the increase in atmospheric CO2 levels is the effect.

The burning of fossil fuels, such as coal, oil, and natural gas, releases carbon dioxide (CO2) and other greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. These gases trap heat from the sun, leading to an increase in the Earth's average temperature, a phenomenon known as global warming or climate change.

This cause-and-effect relationship has been extensively studied and is well-supported by scientific evidence. It is a key factor in our understanding of anthropogenic (human-caused) climate change.