The term 'Climate change' denotes significant, long-term changes in global temperatures and meteorological patterns. Such changes can occur due to natural factors such as changes in the sun's activity and large volcanic eruptions. However, since the Industrial Revolution, anthropogenic activities-specifically the combustion of fossil fuels such as coal, oil and gas- have been the prime causes of climatic shifts. Which of the following is closest in meaning to the word 'anthropogenic' in the text above?
Step-by-step Solution:
The prefix 'anthropo-' relates to humans (as seen in anthropology), and the suffix '-genic' means producing or causing (as in generated). In the context of the passage, 'anthropogenic activities' are contrasted with 'natural factors' and refer to actions like the combustion of fossil fuels by humans. Thus, it means 'human-induced'.