Final answer:
A significant portion of the observed global warming over the past 100 years has been attributed to human activities, especially the burning of fossil fuels. Historical temperature fluctuations can be attributed to natural events, but they do not account for the rapid increase in global temperatures and CO2 levels we see today. Using alternative energy sources and reducing fossil fuel usage may help slow the rate of climate change.
Step-by-step explanation:
Contrary to the belief that natural forces are responsible for most of the warming observed over the past 100 years, a significant portion of the phenomenon can be attributed to human activities, particularly the burning of fossil fuels. This began to dramatically increase during the Industrial Revolution, leading to a substantial rise in greenhouse gases that trap heat within the Earth's atmosphere. While the Earth has gone through cycles of temperature fluctuations, these historic anomalies can be primarily explained by natural factors such as changes in solar activity, volcanic eruptions, and Milankovitch cycles. However, none of these causes account for the rapid and sustained increase in global temperature and carbon dioxide levels we are currently witnessing. It is important to note that while global warming cannot be reversed, the rate of climate change can possibly be slowed through concerted efforts to use alternative energy sources and reduce fossil fuel usage.
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