How to Read an Environmental Chart: The Keeling Curve and Atmospheric CO₂
The Keeling Curve shows the latest atmospheric CO₂ concentration at Mauna Loa Observatory: 426.55 parts per million (ppm) in February 2025, as reported by…
Topic archive
Earth System Climate
Understanding the interconnected components and processes that shape Earth’s climate.
Why the Oceans Absorb Carbon Dioxide
The oceans absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere because of a natural chemical equilibrium: CO2 dissolves in seawater and reacts with water to form…
Carbon Cycle Explained: Sources, Sinks and Storage
The carbon cycle is the continuous movement of carbon among the atmosphere, oceans, land, and living organisms. Carbon sources release carbon into the atmosphere,…
What Is a Climate Feedback Loop? Definition, Types, and Impacts
A climate feedback loop is a process in the climate system that can either amplify (positive feedback) or dampen (negative feedback) an initial change.…