Global Temperature Increase

 

For some years there has been controversy about global warming. Some people have interpreted the data on average temperatures to indicate that the Earth's surface is gradually becoming warmer. The evidence is illustrated in the chart.
It is possible to argue that the changes in temperature represent normal fluctuations in the Earth's temperature and that there is nothing to worry about. Throughout history temperatures have oscillated, sometimes resulting in ice ages in Europe. On the other hand it may be that real temperature rises are taking place and that this will lead to global warming and associated climatic changes.