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Parts per Million: A Little is a LOT (In the Greenhouse #18)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rbxJExAi8a0

Paleontological Research Institution

The current concentration of carbon dioxide in Earth's atmosphere is over 400 parts per million. This video explains what one part per million (ppm) is, and what impact a trace gas – or any trace component in the environment – has on the system as a whole. Engaging with lots of visuals and examples helps viewers understand the concept of parts per million and parts per billion. Examples are relatable through the five senses.

Video length is 7:20

Learn more about Teaching Climate Literacy and Energy Awareness»


Grade Level

Online Readiness

Topics

Climate Literacy

This Video builds on the following concepts of Climate Literacy.

Click a topic below for supporting information, teaching ideas, and sample activities.

Notes From Our Reviewers The CLEAN collection is hand-picked and rigorously reviewed for scientific accuracy and classroom effectiveness. Read what our review team had to say about this resource below or learn more about how CLEAN reviews teaching materials
Teaching Tips | Science | Pedagogy | Technical Details

Teaching Tips

  • This video describes how small amounts of carbon dioxide can have a large impact on the climate. However, it mostly focuses on the magnitude of trace substances and how students can visualize those small amounts.
  • This video may be good for use in a math classroom to describe different levels of magnitudes.

About the Content

  • This video describes the greenhouse effect in terms of how small amounts of carbon dioxide can have a large effect on the climate. They define a trace gas, and use various methods to help students understand and visualize the concentration of carbon dioxide.
  • They also discuss how trace gases can have large impacts by comparing with other examples of trace materials.
  • Finally they describe the greenhouse effect and how it impacts climate change.
  • Passed initial science review - expert science review pending.

About the Pedagogy

  • This video is a good resource for understanding the concentration of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere.
  • It provides a good introduction for how small amounts of important materials can make a big difference.
  • This video may be good for use in a math classroom because it deals with many mathematical concepts.

Technical Details/Ease of Use

  • Video can be viewed on YouTube.
Entered the Collection: April 2025 | Last Reviewed: January 2025

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