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Glossary of Terms

Atmosphere

The ocean of air and other gases that surrounds the earth, separating and insulating it from space. This thin layer is responsible for regulating the temperature of the planet. Through the carbon cycle, the atmosphere also connects all life. Life as we know it depends in part on the atmosphere staying relatively stable.

The atmosphere is composed primarily of three major gases – nitrogen (78%), oxygen (21%), and argon (less than 1%) – as well as trace gases known as greenhouse gases. Greenhouse gases include CO2, methane, ozone, water vapor, etc. CO2 is the most plentiful of the greenhouse gases, but others like methane are more powerful. When the greenhouse gases in the atmosphere increase, the atmosphere warms (global warming) and heats up the earth’s climate (climate change).
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Read about the hydrologic cycle and the greenhouse effect.
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Approximately two-thirds of the world’s population (along with critical infrastructure such as transportation routes, energy processing facilities, and major urban centers) are located near coastlines. All face significant threats from sea level rise.
CNA, “National Security and the Threat of Climate Change,” http://securityandclimate.cna.org/
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