Answer: The average global surface temperature rose by approximately 0.6°C during the 20th century. This increase is primarily attributed to human activities and the release of greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. The correct answer is C. 0.6°C.
Step-by-step explanation:
During the 20th century, the average global surface temperature rose by approximately 0.6°C. This increase in temperature is attributed to human activities, particularly the burning of fossil fuels, which release greenhouse gases into the atmosphere.
Greenhouse gases, such as carbon dioxide and methane, trap heat in the Earth's atmosphere and contribute to the greenhouse effect. As the concentration of these gases increases, more heat is retained, leading to a rise in global temperatures.
Numerous scientific studies and analyses of temperature records have consistently shown that the Earth's surface has warmed over the past century. This increase in temperature has had various impacts, including the melting of glaciers and polar ice caps, rising sea levels, and changes in weather patterns.
It is important to note that the rate of global warming has accelerated in recent decades, with some years experiencing more significant temperature increases than others. However, on average, the global surface temperature rose by approximately 0.6°C during the 20th century.