Which of the following best describes 'climate change'?

'Climate change' is best described as a gradual change in Earth's climate patterns. This concept encompasses long-term alterations in temperature, precipitation, wind patterns, and other elements of the Earth's climate system. Climate change is primarily driven by both natural processes and human activities, particularly the increase in greenhouse gas emissions due to industrialization, deforestation, and fossil fuel consumption. These gradual changes have far-reaching impacts on ecosystems, weather patterns, sea levels, and global temperatures.

The idea that climate change is a temporary increase in global temperatures does not capture the long-term nature of these shifts; rather, climate change refers to an ongoing process rather than a fleeting phenomenon. Additionally, suggesting that climate change only affects specific regions fails to recognize its global impact; it influences weather patterns and environmental conditions across the entire planet. Lastly, describing climate change as a historical event overlooks its current significance; it remains a pressing issue that society actively addresses today due to its potential consequences for future generations. Therefore, the characterization of climate change as a gradual change in Earth's climate patterns accurately reflects its complexities and implications.