Answer: IPCC (1988): assesses and synthesizes peer-reviewed climate science for policymakers across three Working Groups; does not conduct original research but provides authoritative assessment of existing evidence.
- A The IPCC itself is sometimes thought to conduct its own original primary climate research in-house, operating dedicated research laboratories, weather satellites, and ground-based field stations worldwide
- B IPCC (1988): assesses and synthesizes peer-reviewed climate science for policymakers across three Working Groups; does not conduct original research but provides authoritative assessment of existing evidence
- C The IPCC is sometimes thought to publish mainly national-level policy documents intended mainly for individual member government legislatures to formally adopt at their own discretion
- D IPCC scientific recommendations are sometimes thought to carry full, legally binding enforcement force over every signatory member nation under established international treaty law
Correct answer: B. IPCC (1988): assesses and synthesizes peer-reviewed climate science for policymakers across three Working Groups; does not conduct original research but provides authoritative assessment of existing evidence
Explanation: IPCC: 195 member governments + 1000s of volunteer scientists synthesize global climate literature. Reports: AR1-AR6 (Assessment Reports), Special Reports (1.5C, Oceans, Land). AR6 (2021): 'unequivocal that human influence has warmed the atmosphere, ocean and land'; 1.5C may be exceeded by 2040 under current policies; impacts are accelerating. IPCC reports inform UNFCCC negotiations (Paris Agreement). Not politically independent of governments (Summary for Policymakers is line-by-line government approved).
Sunlight passes through the atmosphere and warms the surface; the surface re-radiates this energy as infrared heat, which greenhouse gases (CO₂, CH₄, water vapour) absorb and trap - a naturally beneficial process that intensifies into global warming as gas concentrations rise from human activity.
Concept context
Pollution, global warming, ozone depletion, deforestation, and sustainability. Important for NEET and general awareness.