The scientific view is that the increase in global temperature should

The scientific view is that the increase in global temperature should not exceed 2°C above pre-industrial level. If the global temperature increases beyond 3°C above the pre-industrial level, what can be its possible impact/impacts on the world?

1. Terrestrial biosphere tends toward a net carbon source.
2. Widespread coral mortality will occur.
3. All the global wetlands will permanently disappear.
4. Cultivation of cereals will not be possible anywhere in the world.

Select the correct answer using the code given below.

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1 only

1 and 2 only

2, 3 and 4 only

1, 2, 3 and 4

Answer is Right!

Answer is Wrong!

This question was previously asked in

UPSC IAS – 2014

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Based on scientific projections, a global temperature increase beyond 3°C above pre-industrial levels would likely lead to the terrestrial biosphere becoming a net carbon source and widespread coral mortality. Statements 3 and 4 are considered too extreme and unlikely to be certain outcomes at this temperature increase level according to current scientific understanding.

The question assesses understanding of the projected impacts of significant global warming based on climate science.

A 3°C warming scenario is associated with severe impacts. Terrestrial ecosystems (like forests and soils) can shift from absorbing CO2 to releasing it (net source) due to factors like increased respiration, droughts, and wildfires (Statement 1). Coral reefs are highly vulnerable to thermal stress; exceeding 1.5°C is critical, and a 3°C increase would cause near-total loss and widespread mortality (Statement 2). While climate change will impact wetlands and agriculture significantly, the complete and permanent disappearance of ALL global wetlands (Statement 3) and impossibility of cereal cultivation ANYWHERE (Statement 4) are considered overly pessimistic and not certain outcomes even at 3°C warming. Some adaptation, resilience, or regional variations are expected.

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