What is the term for the gradual increase in Earth's average temperature?

The term for the gradual increase in Earth's average temperature is global warming. It describes the long-term rise in the planet's average surface temperature, especially the modern warming driven largely by human activities.

The main cause is the buildup of greenhouse gases, particularly carbon dioxide from burning coal, oil, and natural gas. These gases absorb some of the infrared energy Earth radiates after absorbing sunlight, slowing the escape of heat into space. The natural greenhouse effect makes Earth habitable; the problem is its human-driven strengthening.

Global warming is related to, but not identical with, climate change. Global warming refers specifically to rising average temperature, while climate change includes wider effects such as shifting rainfall, melting ice, rising seas, and more frequent or intense heat extremes. Ocean acidification is another consequence of excess carbon dioxide, not the name for warming itself.

The scientific record combines thermometer measurements, ocean observations, shrinking glaciers, satellite data, and other evidence. Short-term weather can still be cold or unusually cool in a particular place, because local weather varies even while the global average rises.