Which of the following is NOT a natural factor affecting climate change?

Natural Factors Affecting Climate Change

Natural factors affecting climate change include natural processes and phenomena such as continental drift, ocean currents, and volcanic activity, which can influence the Earth's climate over varying time scales.

• Continental Drift: The movement of Earth's continents over geological time can alter oceanic and atmospheric circulation patterns.

• Ocean Currents: These currents distribute heat around the planet, influencing climate patterns.

• Volcanic Activity: Eruptions can release large quantities of ash and gases into the atmosphere, affecting global temperatures.

Analyzing the Given Options

1. "Continental drift" (Natural factor)

   • Continental drift changes the positions of continents, influencing global wind and ocean current patterns.

2. "Ocean currents" (Natural factor)

   • Ocean currents play a crucial role in redistributing heat across the planet, thus affecting climate.

3. "Industrial emissions" (NOT a natural factor)

   • Industrial emissions are human-made and include greenhouse gases such as CO₂ and methane, contributing to global warming and climate change.

   • This statement is correct because industrial emissions are anthropogenic, not natural, factors.

4. "Volcanic activity" (Natural factor)

   • Volcanic eruptions can inject ash and sulfur dioxide into the stratosphere, leading to temporary cooling effects.