3.1.1 Water and Carbon Cycles Flashcards

1
Q

how are models useful to a geographer?

A

-very visual
-simplify a complex world
-provide a starting point
-helps to predict and describe a possible sequence/consequence
-shows interrelated components

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2
Q

what are the inputs of the water cycle?

A

-precipitation
-autumn leaf fall
-seeds carried by wind & birds

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3
Q

what are the outputs of the water cycle?

A

-plants
-evaporation
-seed dispersal

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4
Q

what are the stores/components of the water cycle?

A

-water
-soil
-water soaking through the soil/rocks

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5
Q

what are the flows/transfers of the water cycle?

A

-photosynthesis
-infiltration
-transpiration

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6
Q

what do systems compromise of?

A

any set of interrelated components to form a working unit

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7
Q

what does a relationship mean in comparison to an interrelationship?

A

relationship means one way whereas an interrelationship means both ways

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8
Q

what are the different geological systems?

A

-hydrological cycle
-carbon cycle
-ecosystems
-oceanic circulation
-atmospheric circulation

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9
Q

what’s another name for the hydrological cycle?

A

water cycle

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10
Q

what is an ecosystem?

A

a system that models relationships and interactions between the various biotic and abiotic components making up a community of organisms and their surrounding physical environment

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11
Q

what’s an example of an ecosystem?

A

Sahara Desert

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12
Q

what’s an example of a biome?

A

all the hot deserts in the world

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13
Q

what are the four main biomes?

A

-hot desert
-cold desert
-temperate forest
-rainforest

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14
Q

what does desert mean?

A

lacks rain (dry)

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15
Q

what is a system?

A

an assemblage of interrelated parts that work together by way of some driving process

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16
Q

what are some common characteristics that most systems share?

A
  1. systems have a structure that is defined by its parts and processes
  2. systems are generalisations of reality
  3. systems tend to function in the same way- this involves the inputs and outputs of material
  4. the various parts of a system have functional as well as structural relationships between each other
    5.flow and transfer of some type of energy and/or matter
  5. systems often exchange energy and/or matter beyond their defined boundary with the outside environment
  6. functional relationships can only occur through various input and output processes
  7. the parts that make up a system show some degree of integration
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17
Q

within the boundary of a system what three properties can we find?

A

-elements
-attributes
-relationships

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18
Q

what are elements?

A

the kinds of parts that make up a system

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19
Q

what are attributes?

A

characteristics of the elements that may be perceived and measured

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20
Q

what are the relationships in a system?

A

the associations that occur between elements and attributes

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21
Q

what are the types of system?

A

-closed
-open
-isolated
-morphological
-cascading
-process response
-control
-ecosystem

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22
Q

what is a closed system?

A

system that transfers energy but not matter across its boundary to the surrounding environment

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23
Q

what is an open system?

A

system that transfers both energy and matter across its boundary to the surrounding environment

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24
Q

what is an isolated system?

A

a system that has no interactions beyond its boundary layer

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25
what is a morphological system?
this is a system where we understand relationships between elements and their attributes in a vague sense based only on measured features and correlations
26
what is a cascading system?
when a change in one area of a system causes a change in another and another and another and another
27
what is a process-response system?
a system that integrates the characteristics of both morphological and cascading systems
28
what is a control system?
a system that can be intelligently manipulated by the action of humans
29
what systems are the carbon and water cycle?
they are both cascading systems but not control systems
30
what is positive feedback?
where a change causes a further effect accelerating the original change
31
what is negative feedback?
system acts by lessening the effect of the original change and ultimately reverses it
32
what is a positive feedback loop that increases global warming?
1. temperatures warm 2. sea ice melts and shrinks 3. dark ocean waters absorb more solar radiation 4. temperatures warm further 5. sea ice melts more 6. temperatures warm further still
33
what is a negative feedback loop that decreases global warming?
1. surface temperature increases 2. increased evaporation from oceans 3. increased low cloud in atmosphere 4. increased earths albedo 5. decreased surface temperature (slightly) 6. decreased evaporation from oceans 7. decreased low clouds in atmosphere 8. earths albedo decreases
34
what percentage of earths total global water is freshwater?
2.5%
35
what percentage of earths total global water is oceans?
96.5%
36
what percentage of earths freshwater is found in the ground?
30.1%
37
what percentage of earths freshwater is found in glaciers and icecaps?
68.7%
38
what percentage of earths freshwater is found on the surface?
1.2%
39
what percentage of earths surface water is in the atmosphere?
3.0%
40
what percentage of earths surface water is in living things?
0.26%
41
what percentage of earths surface water is in soil moisture?
3.8%
42
what percentage of earths surface water is in lakes?
20.9%
43
what percentage of earths surface water is in ground ice and permafrost?
69.0%
44
what type of water is most of the earths water?
salt water
45
is most of the earths water being salt water useful? why?
no, it's useless because if you drink it you go mad, it clogs up machines and cannot be used to water crops as it kills plants
46
why does the ocean have differential areas of saltiness?
due to the amount of dissolvable rocks present and the flow of ice/glaciers into the sea which aren't salty
47
how have Americans considered solving the California water shortage?
by iceberg harvesting
48
how far above ground is the water table in Wokingham?
about 20m above ground
49
how much of earths water is available for human use?
only three-tenths of a percent which is all we'll ever have
50
where is 90% of the water that is locked in ice and glaciers found?
antarctica
51
how much of our water is used for growing food?
two thirds of our water
52
how much of the water we use on earth is used in industry?
80%
53
how much water does it take to produce one pound of beef?
1,837 gallons of water
54
how much water does it take to produce one cup of coffee?
37 gallons of water
55
how much of indoor water use is used for flushing the toilet in the US?
26%
56
how much of indoor water use is used for washing clothes in the US?
22%
57
how much of indoor water use is used for showering and bathing in the US?
19%
58
how much water do americans use on average per day?
100 gallons of water
59
how much water do millions of the worlds poorest persist on per day?
fewer than 5 gallons of water
60
how many people lack access to clean, safe water supply?
one billion people
61
by 2025 how many people will live where water is scarce?
1.8 billion people
62
how will water scarcity and global warming cause problems for the uk in the future?
due to global warming water will get more scarce so large amounts of people will migrate to countries that do not have a scarcity of water- e.g. the UK
63
how many swimming pools are there in the US?
8.8 million
64
how much of the human body is water?
66% of the human body is water
65
what is an aquifer?
a body of saturated rock through which water can easily move
66
what must happen in order for a well to be productive?
it must be drilled into an aquifer
67
why are rocks such as granite and schist generally poor aquifers?
they have a very low porosity
68
what is a well?
a hole drilled into the ground to penetrate an aquifer
69
there are a lot of aquifers underneath the amazon rainforest- is this helpful?
no because the water's not being used as nobody lives there
70
why is it a good thing that there are aquifers under the sahara desert?
it means the water can be used for farming in the future
71
where is indonesias population ranked globally?
indonesia has the 4th largest population
72
what does it mean that areas have physical water scarcity?
they have a lack of water
73
what does it mean that areas have economic water scarcity?
they can't afford to exploit water
74
what is an example of a continent that has low physical water scarcity but high economic water scarcity?
Africa
75
when countries are on a map and have no data collected- what are the reasons why that may happen?
-the country is at war -there is no point as there's a very small population -there's high levels of poverty so it's not possible
76
what are the different ways that water is found in around the world?
-oceanic water -cryospheric water -terrestrial water -atmospheric water
77
how much oceanic water is there?
-1,370,000,000 km³ with an average depth of 3,862m -covers approximately 72% of the planets surface
78
in what forms are oceanic water?
divided into principal oceans and smaller seas
79
what are the key issues/changes with oceanic water?
-the pH has fallen from about 8.25 in the last 250 years -this change in pH is linked to the increase in atmospheric carbon and may have a profound influence on marine ecosystems -it's mostly salt water
80
how much cryospheric water is there?
-glacial land ice extends more than 50,000 km² -greenland ice sheet extends about 1.7 million km²
81
in what forms is cryospheric water?
-the portions of the earths surface where water is in solid form -sea ice -ice sheets -alpine glaciers -ice caps -permafrost
82
what are the key issues/changes of cryospheric water?
-ice sheets form in areas where snow that falls in winter does not melt entirely over the summer- causing layers of snow to pile up into thick masses of ice -if greenland ice sheet melted the sea level would rise about six metres -if the antarctic ice sheet melted, sea level would rise by 60m
83
how much terrestrial water is there?
-rivers make up only a small percentage of all water, covering just 1,000,000 km² with a volume of 2,120km³
84
in what forms is terrestrial water?
-surface water -ground water -soil water -biological water
85
what are the key issues/changes of terrestrial water?
there is not much of this water
86
in what forms is atmospheric water?
-exists in all three states -the most common is gas: water vapour
87
what are the key issues/changes of atmospheric water?
can not be used as it's hard to collect
88
the oceans are the main store of saline water. can you account for the 'other saline water' stores?
saline aquifers and mangrove swamps
89
what are saline aquifers?
they exist where seawater has infiltrated into the rocks, often due to over abstraction
90
many of the worlds glaciers are melting, where do you think this freshwater is going?
ocean store (meaning it's now saltwater)
91
why is 'groundwater' a more important fresh water source than 'glaciers, ice caps and ice sheets'?
it's not frozen, in more convenient locations, it's held as ice
92
why do you think the atmosphere stores such a small amount of the worlds water?
water cycles quickly in and out of the atmosphere- the atmosphere can't store it very effectively
93
what happens once aquifers under deserts have been used?
they won't refill for a long time as there's little rain, this means they could be infiltrated by seawater when they are empty
94
what is the availability of fresh, clean water affected by?
climate change, overuse and contamination
95
what are the four main stores of the water cycle?
-lithosphere (land) -hydrosphere (liquid water) -cryosphere (frozen water) -atmosphere (air)
96
what is the cryosphere?
it contains the frozen parts of the earth
97
what does the cryosphere include?
-snow -ice on land -ice caps -glaciers -permafrost -sea ice
98
describe the main positive feedback mechanism present in the cryosphere
melting reduces ice coverage, decreasing albedo, leading to more absorption of solar energy and further warming
99
describe the main negative feedback mechanism present in the cryosphere
increased snowfall in some areas due to warmer air holding more moisture can offset ice loss temporarily
100
what are ice caps?
when snow accumulates and compresses into ice, feeding the glaciers
101
what are glaciers?
frozen rivers move downhill due to gravity and weight
102
what is snow?
it covers mountains in ice sheets, playing a big role in reflecting solar energy
103
what is permafrost?
permanently frozen soil underground, thawing this could release greenhouse gases like methane
104
what are icebergs?
ice that has broken off from glaciers or ice-shelves
105
what is an ice shelf?
an extended piece of ice from a land based ice sheet
106
what is an ice sheet?
massive layers of ice covering land, such as Antarctica or Greenland
107
describe the composition of the earths atmosphere
-78% nitrogen -21% oxygen -0.9% argon -the remaining gases, such as water vapour and CO2 are found in smaller quantities
108
what are the different layers of the earths atmosphere?
-troposphere -stratosphere -mesosphere -thermosphere -exosphere
109
describe the troposphere
-lowest level of the atmosphere, from the surface of the earth up to 9-17km -densest atmospheric layer because of the weight of the layers above it -contains 99% of all water vapour
110
describe the stratosphere
-extends up to 50-55km -much warmer than the troposphere -contains the ozone layer which absorbs radiation from the sun, protecting the surface -not much weather occurs here
111
describe the mesosphere
-extends up to 80-85km -reaches temperatures as low as -100 degrees -water vapour is scarce but noctilucent clouds can form ice crystals
112
describe the thermosphere
-extends up to 500-1000km -where the atmosphere begins to break down -temperature rises as altitude increases; however, the air is so thin that although particles may have energy equivalent to a heat of 1500 degrees, it wouldn't feel hot to touch
113
describe the exosphere
no well define upper limit as it merges with space where gases can escape earths gravity
114
what is the atmosphere?
a complex system of gases that surrounds the planet and is held in place by gravity
115
what are the functions of the atmosphere?
-life support -temperature regulation -UV protection -weather and climate -shield from space debris
116
how does the atmosphere support life?
it supplies oxygen for breathing and carbon dioxide for photosynthesis
117
how does the atmosphere regulate temperature?
acts as an insulating blanket, maintaining a habitable climate through the greenhouse effect
118
how does the atmosphere provide UV protection?
the ozone layer shields life from harmful ultraviolet radiation
119
how does the atmosphere impact weather and climate?
drives global weather systems and patterns through interactions between air, water and sunlight
120
how does the atmosphere shield from space debris?
burns up meteoroids before they reach the surface
121
what is the lithosphere?
the rocky outer part of the earth, it is made up of the brittle crust and the top part of the upper mantle- it is the coolest and most rigid part of the earth
122
what are the characteristics of the lithosphere?
-the rocks in the lithosphere are considered elastic and they are not viscous -the asthenosphere is viscous and the lithosphere asthenosphere boundary is the point where geologists mark the difference in ductility between the two layers of the upper mantle -the lithosphere is far less ductile than the asthenosphere
123
what are the types of lithosphere?
-oceanic lithosphere (associated with oceanic crust) -continental lithosphere (less dense than the oceanic lithosphere)
124
what tectonic plates make up the lithosphere?
North American, Caribbean, South American, Scotia, Antarctic, Eurasian, Arabian, African, Indian, Philippine, Australian, Pacific, Juan de Fuca, Cocos and Nazca
125
what is the movement of tectonic plates possible by?
the thermal energy from the mantle part of the lithosphere
126
how does thermal energy impact the rocks of the lithosphere?
thermal energy makes the rocks more elastic
127
how does the lithosphere interact with other sphere?
-enormous, hard rocks of the lithosphere may be ground down to powder by the powerful movement of a glacier (cryosphere) -weathering and erosion caused by wind (atmosphere) or rain (hydrosphere may also wear down rocks in the lithosphere
128
what are the functions of the biosphere?
-support life -nutrient cycling -climate regulation -habitats and biodiversity
129
how does the biosphere support life?
the biosphere provides the necessary conditions for all living organisms to survive
130
how does the biosphere cycle nutrients?
it supports the circulation of essential nutrients through ecosystems
131
how does the biosphere regulate climate?
through processes like photosynthesis, respiration and water cycles
132
how does the biosphere provide habitats and biodiversity?
it offers countless habitats for a vast variety of plant, animal, and microorganism species, promoting biodiversity
133
why is protecting the biosphere important?
the biosphere is crucial for sustaining life, ensuring ecosystem balance, and maintaining the overall health of out planet
134
what is the biosphere?
the main part of the earth where all organisms live
135
what is the hydrosphere?
the total amount of water on a planet, this includes water that is on the surface of the planet, underground and in the air
136
how does liquid water exist on the surface of the earth?
in the form of oceans, lakes and rivers
137
how does liquid water exist below the ground of the earth?
as groundwater in wells and aquifers
138
when is water vapour most visible?
when its as clouds and fog
139
what is the frozen part of the hydrosphere made of?
ice: glaciers, ice caps and iceburgs
140
what is the name given to the frozen part of the hydrosphere?
the cryosphere
141
how does water move through the hydrosphere?
In the water cycle; hot air rises as water vapour condenses into a solid or liquid form, they create droplets that precipitate back onto the earths surface as rain or snow, precipitation that falls onto land flows into rivers, streams or lakes, and some of it seeps into the soil where it is held underground as groundwater. When warmed by the sun, water on the surface of oceans and freshwater bodies evaporates, forming a vapour. This then rises into the atmosphere again and the cycle repeates.
142
what are some inputs into the hydrosphere?
precipiation
143
what are some stores in the hydrosphere?
-surface water -groundwater -oceans -clouds -biomass
144
what are some outputs to the hydrosphere?
-plants -evaporation -biomass
145
what is sublimation?
solid to gas
146
what is deposition?
gas to solid
147
how was antarctica formed?
due to deposition, as the air (saturated with water vapour) hits the cold ground it freezes immediately
148
define pressure
the weight of air on the earths surface
149
what is the global average atmospheric pressure?
1 bar or 1000 millibars
150
why can the atmosphere not sustain large changes in pressure gradients?
because the atmosphere is a gas it cannot sustain large changes in pressure gradients
151
why does air get colder as it rises?
this is because it gets less dense as it rises so it doesn't trap heat- less insulation
152
what is the environmental temperature?
the temperature at any particular height in the atmosphere
153
why are tropical rainforests on the equator not hotter than deserts on cancer and capricorn?
they are cooler because the process of creating rain takes up heat energy and due to cold air falling it has a cooling effect on the ground
154
what does high pressure mean?
no space for hot air particles to rise, particles fall and heat up, becomes dry air = deserts
155
what does low pressure mean?
space for hot air particles to rise = rain
156
describe the atmospheric circulation model
1. suns rays are more concentrated at the equator therefore making it warmer (it only has to heat a small area and the suns rays also have to pass through less atmosphere) 2. hot air rises off the equator, this creates low pressure and therefore rain 3. as the air rises it gets colder and small- the water gets squeezed out of it forming condensation nuclei in the atmosphere (the air contracts, causing water vapour to cool and condense), this starts to form clouds at dew point 4. falling air- warms up- expands- no rain = hot deserts 5.temperate regions- same as equation but less hot 6. regions- higher pressure- no rain = cold deserts
157
what does the atmospheric circulation model look like?
*see paper flashcard*
158
what does the ITCZ stand for?
Inter Tropical Convergence Zone
159
where is the ITCZ?
in the middle when its in between the equinox and solstice
160
when does the ITCZ move north?
in summer
161
when does the ITCZ move south?
in winter
162
what is the residence time of the ocean?
up to 4,000 years
163
what is the residence time of the glaciers?
up to 1000 years
164
what is the residence time of groundwater?
2 weeks-1000 years
165
what is the residence time of soil?
2 weeks-1 year
166
what is the residence time of the atmosphere?
10 days
167
what is the residence time of lakes?
10 years
168
what is the residence time of rivers?
2 weeks
169
what is the residence time of swamps?
1-10 years
170
what is the amount of water held in each store in the water cycle determined by?
the transfer processes that act as inputs and outputs
171
how long ago was the last ice age?
18,000 years ago
172
what happened at the peak of the last ice age?
about 1/3 of the earth's land area was covered by glaciers and ice sheets
173
what is the driving force for the movement of clouds?
the global atmospheric circulation model
174
what does the global atmospheric circulation model demonstrate?
variations in time and space of the water cycle transfer process
175
what is the equilibrium line?
on a glacier, this marks the altitude where the annual accumulation and melting are equal
176
what has happened to the equilibrium line in the recent decade as the climate has warmed?
the equilibrium line has moved to higher altitudes so most glaciers are now shrinking and retreating
177
what is the global atmospheric circulation model also called?
latitudes affect on climate
178
why are black clouds black?
as there's lots of water which stops sunlight from going through
179
which cells in the atmospheric circulation model are the weakest?
the polar cells
180
how much rainfall must a place get to be a desert?
less than 500mm of rain
181
what does residence time mean?
the length of time water remains in the store
182
what is calving?
when the snout of a glacier falls off into the sea
183
where's 95% of the water that's stored in ice stored?
ice sheets covering Antarctica and Greenland
184
how old is some ice in ice sheets?
400,000 years old
185
how much could the sea level rice due to melting of polar ice sheets?
by 60m
186
how much of the 60m rise in sea level due to melting of polar ice sheets is actually due to thermal expansion?
80%
187
what is the equilibrium line?
this marks the altitude where the annual accumulation and melting (ablation) are equal
188
why does soil have the second shortest residence time in the water cycle?
due to the uptake of water through the roots and evaporation from surface of soil
189
why does deep groundwater have the longest residence time in the water cycle?
due to the fact there are no rocks to uptake water, and friction and impermeable rocks
190
how is snow formed?
by deposition and is it falls it does not melt
191
how is hail and sleet formed?
they are formed by deposition but as they fall they melt then rise again into colder air and re-freeze- this is how they then fall
192
what is the name for clouds on the ground?
dew
193
what is the name for frozen clouds on the ground?
frost
194
explain the role of cryospheric change in the water cycle
-cryospheric change has a regulatory role in sea levels -the cyrosphere is a major store of water -in a period of cooling the cryosphere will grow in size, this is because the water cycle is slowed considerably as the ice restricts the return of the water to the sea and ocean -in a period of warming the cryosphere will add water to the cycle, as the water cycle restarts more of the ice melts and return water to the sea -this increased the size of ocean store causing sea levels to rise through thermal expansion
195
define water table
point at which the ground becomes saturated with water
196
where does through flow take place?
above the water table but below the surface
197
how do rivers erode and when do they stop eroding?
rivers erode vertically until they hit the water table where they stop eroding
198
explain why the drainage basin hydrological cycle can be described as an open system
-it has energy transfers due to the suns rays -it has transfers of matter (water) due to evaporation and transpiration which leaves the drainage basin and enters the atmosphere
199
what are four ways that water reaches a river channel in a drainage basin?
-directly from the atmosphere as precipitation -surface runoff -water infiltrates through the ground as throughflow -water percolates through the ground as baseflow
200
suggest how hydrological cycle operations might differ between a mountainous region and a lowland forest region
-the mountainous region is colder so there would be little evaporation whereas the lowland forest would be hotter so there would be more evaporation -the mountain area would have less trees so there would be more surface runoff as there's no interception from trees or uptake from the roots whereas in a forest there are lots of trees so there would be limited surface runoff due to the interception of the leaves
201
what are two ways humans can impact the hydrological cycle?
-building impermeable surfaces increase surface runoff and increasing flooding -cutting down trees reduces interception so also increases surface runoff
202
how is the water table affected in summer?
it's lower in summer
203
how is the water table affected in winter?
it's higher in winter
204
what is throughflow?
the flow through the ground above the water table
205
what is infiltration?
when water breaks through permeable surfaces
206
what is groundwater flow?
flow through the ground in the water table
207
what is channel flow?
flow of a river
208
what is river runoff?
when water leaves the drainage basin system
209
is evaporation or transpiration largely dependent upon absorption of water from the soil?
transpiration
210
is evaporation or transpiration a physical process that occurs on any free surface?
evaporation
211
is evaporation or transpiration that the formation of vapour continues for some time even after the saturation of outside air?
transpiration
212
is evaporation or transpiration if it varies directly according to the velocity of the wind?
both
213
is evaporation or transpiration if it is a physiological process and occurs in plants?
transpiration
214
is evaporation or transpiration if living cells are involvedq?
transpiration
215
is evaporation or transpiration if any liquid can evaporate- the living epidermis and stomata are not involved?
evaporation
216
is evaporation or transpiration if various forces such as vapour pressure and osmotic pressure are involved?
transpiration
217
is evaporation or transpiration if not many forces are involved?
evaporation
218
is evaporation or transpiration if the water moves through the epidermis with its cuticle or through the stomata?
transpiration
219
is evaporation or transpiration the rate is slightly lower than evaporation under the influence of wind velocity because it lowers the leaf temperature?
transpiration
220
is evaporation or transpiration if it stops when the air is fully saturatedq?
evaporation
221
is evaporation or transpiration if it can occur from both living and non living surfaces?
evaporation
222
is evaporation or transpiration if it continues as long as water is available on the surface?
evaporation
223
what is soil moisture utilisation?
as it warms up potential evapotranspiration exceeds precipitation- the water store is being used by plants (utilisation)
224
what is soil moisture defecit?
there is a defecit of soil water, plants either wilt or have adaptations to survive dry conditions
225
what is soil moisture surplus?
precipitation is greater than potential evapotranspiration, all space in the soil has been filled and so it is in surplus, groundwater gets recharged, overland flow can occur leading to floods
226
what is soil moisture recharge?
precipitation is greater than potential evapotranspiration, the soil water will start to fill again (recharge) until it gets back to its normal level
227
what is the water balance?
the balance between inputs and outputs in a drainage basin, usually shown on a graph
228
why is storage expressed with a +/- in the water balance equation?
because of drought/flooding
229
what places can precipitation end up?
-evapotranspiration -streamflow -storage
230
describe the UK climate
-precipitation exceeds evapotranspiration -during the winter months when precipitation is high and evapotranspiration and temperatures are low, there is a soil moisture surplus -but summer can lead to a soil moisture defecit
231
what areas of a water balance graph should be the same size?
soil moisture utilisation and soil moisture recharge
232
what can be done in soil moisture utilisation?
-plants -agriculture -humans
233
what is the field capacity of soil?
the soil becomes as saturated as it can be
234
what two things should you always think about when describing a water balance graph?
-always look at the key carefully -look at where the place is in the world e.g. a desert and if the graph doesn't match this then you are reading it wrong
235
what does the word 'compare' mean in a question?
give similarities and differences
236
what does the word 'contrast' mean in a question?
just give differences
237
what is a river regime?
the pattern of seasonal variation in the flow of a river (discharge)
238
what are river regimes related to?
-the geology and soils (so the amount of precipitation that finds its way to the river depends on: steepness of slope; permeability of the rocks and soils and vegetation cover) -climate (the precipitation, temperature and evaporation rate) -additionally (streams with many tributaries may have a different regime from streams with few)
239
what are the different types of river regimes?
simple and complex
240
describe a simple regime
-these show times of high water levels followed by lower levels, one cycle per year -they exist as a result of glacier melt, snow melt or seasonal rainfall such as monsoons
241
why do most British rivers have a simple regime?
-they are relatively short -there is the same climate throughout the British Isles
242
describe a complex regime
-if a river has more than one period of high water levels and/or low water levels [er year -more common on large rivers that flow through a variety of relief and receive their water supply from large tributaries -and through various climate zones
243
what factors affect the shape of the hydrograph?
-drainage basin shape and size -steepness of land -vegetation -carbon land use -deforestation
244
how does the drainage basin shape and size affect the shape of the hydrograph?
If there is a big drainage basin it will mean the river discharge is quicker. However, it will mean that the lag time will be longer as there is a bigger volume of water and there is a higher chance of interception.
245
how does the steepness of land affect the shape of the hydrograph?
If it is steeper there is a quick water runoff meaning that there is a shorter lag time.
246
how does the amount of vegetation affect the shape of the hydrograph?
Precipitation is intercepted by the plants so it takes longer for it to get to the river as the vegetation has taken up/ in the water. Water is lost by evaporation and transpiration also.
247
how does carbon land use affect the shape of the hydrograph?
Agriculture have a variety of effects among which are ploughing that breaks up the top soil and allows greater infiltration, subduing the hydrographs. This can be enhanced by contour ploughing.
248
how can you find out the discharger of a river?
multiply the velocity of the river, measured in metres per second by the cross-sectional area of the river measured in square metres
249
what is the discharge of a river measured in?
cumecs (cubic metres per second)
250
what does a storm hydrograph show?
how the drainage basin helps to respond to a period of rainfall
250
what is bankfull discharge?
when the river is at maximum capacity (up to the river bank)
251
what does the hydrograph allow us to examine a relationship between?
the rainfall event and the discharge- it shows the discharge before, during and after the storm
252
what is bankfull?
the maximum discharge that a river channel is capable of carrying without flooding
253
what is discharge?
the amount of water in a river flowing past a particular point expressed m³ s⁻¹ (camecs)
254
what is a flashy drainage basin?
it leads to flooding
255
what is peak discharge?
the point on a flood hydrograph when river discharge is at its greatest
256
what is storm flow?
discharge resulting from storm precipitation involving both over land flow, through flow and ground water flow
257
what is lag time?
the time between peak rainfall and peak discharge
258
what does it mean the longer to lag time?
the longer the lag time the lower the peak flow, this is because the water molecules arrive to the river at different times
259
what is baseflow?
water trickling out of the ground from bed and banks of river
260
what factors affect discharge?
-weather -drainage basin -vegetation -geology and soils -land use -agriculture -construction
261
how does weather affect discharge?
-snow slows down -precipitation, intensity and duration -temperature, evaporation reduces discharge
262
how does the drainage basin affect discharge?
-shape, rounder=higher discharge -size, smaller increases discharge -slope, step slope means water reaches river more quickly -drainage density
263
what is drainage density?
the number of river/ stream channels in a square km
264
how does vegetation affect discharge?
more trees can reduce infiltration due to higher interception, higher evapotranspiration and more uptake
265
how does geology and soils affect discharge?
impermeable rocks increase surface runoff and humous soils absorb more water
266
how does land use affect discharge?
-urbanisation -drainage -deforestation
267
how does agriculture affect discharge?
removes vegetation and ploughing creates mini drainage basins in the fields
268
how does construction affect discharge?
-dams -levees -afforestation
269
what are dams used for?
to moderate the flow of the river
270
what's an example of a levee that failed?
New Orleans levee
271
what is a storm hydrograph?
a graph of discharge of a river over a period when the normal flow of the river is affected by a storm event
272
what does ephemeral mean?
name given to a river that only flows in winter (baseflow gets to zero in summer)
273
what has to happen for a river to stop flowing?
the water has to drop below the water table
274
how do you describe a hydrograph?
-The rising limb is described as... -The falling limb is described as... The lag time for _____ is... -The peak discharge for _____ is... -Some of the reasons of this shape include... because...
275
during a drought would you expect more clouds or less clouds?
less clouds even though there is increased evaporation
276
why do less clouds form during drought?
because the air is hotter- this increases the capacity of the air because it expands, this means the air can hold more water vapour which means the air does not condense and form clouds
277
draw and label the water cycle
*see paper flashcard*
278
how does agriculture affect the water cycle?
-farmers are able to control the local water cycle through irrigation or land drainage -soils covered with plants have higher infiltration and soil water rates and therefore reduced runoff
279
how does urbanisation affect the water cycle?
water cannot infiltrate the soil as it has been covered with impermeable concrete or tarmac, which increases overland flow and makes flooding more likely- soil water and groundwater stores are reduced
280
how does water abstraction affect the water cycle?
-Colorado river became ephemeral due to water abstraction which has meant it doesn't reach the sea all year round -when water is abstracted aquifers become depleted, they can also become contaminated by inflowing saltwater if the water table drops below sea level -abstraction can result in low flow conditions in rivers which can have harmful impacts on ecosystems
281
how does soil drainage affect the water cycle?
-the water table is lowered, changing rates of infiltration and evaporation creates dry peat that is friable and vulnerable to erosion -dry peat can also ignite which releases carbon -land drainage causes nitrate loss which can lead to eutrophication (algae grows a lot due to fertiliser which suffocates fish) -the dry topsoil can be subject to wind erosion
282
how does irrigation affect the water cycle?
irrigation has a significant impact on water stores and transport processes, aquifers are in serious danger of being depleted
283
how does deforestation affect the water cycle?
-leading to surface runoff and soil erosion and reducing soil water stores -less trees means new vegetation generally has fewer leaves and shallower roots which means it uses less water than the forest it replaces -the result is that less water evaporates from the land; more water runs off the land and stream flow is increased
284
what are the top four greenhouse gases that contribute to the greenhouse effect?
1. water vapour 2. methane 3. carbon dioxide 4. nitrous oxide
285
how does the ozone layer relate to climate change?
the ozone layer is not related to climate change at all
286
what would happen if we didn't have the greenhouse effect?
earth would be too cold and no life would exist
287
describe the role of photosynthesis in the carbon cycle
the sun sends energy and plants take in the energy and converts it along with carbon dioxide into forms of energy called carbohydrates such as glucose and sucrose
288
what happens when plants are decomposed?
it releases carbon back into the atmosphere
289
what are fossil fuels?
previously dead living organisms that have been compressed under high pressure
290
what fossil fuels do rainforests become?
coal
291
what fossil fuels do marine organisms become?
oil and gas
292
what has industrialisation caused?
it has burned excess fossil fuels which has caused an imbalance
293
how does humans breathing out carbon dioxide play a part in global warming?
humans breathing out carbon dioxide plays no part in global warming
294
what is sustainable technology?
one where it's inputs are equal to it's outputs
295
what did Boserupp say that can be used in a 20 marker?
necessity is the mother of all invention
296
what is carbon?
a basic chemical element needed by all plants and animals to survive
297
what are the roles of carbon?
-it's recycling it essential for life on earth -enables food to be provided for plants/animals -enables energy sources to be created for industrial development
298
where is most of the carbon stored in the world?
lithosphere- the rocks and the soil
299
what is the carbon cycle?
the carbon flows between each of the stores in a complex set of exchanges
300
what is an example of a fast element of the carbon cycle?
trees
301
what is an example of a slow element of the carbon cycle?
carbon being locked in the ground
302
what are the different stores of carbon?
-biosphere -atmosphere -pedosphere -fossil fuels -hydrosphere -lithosphere
303
how many billions of tonnes of carbon is stored in the biosphere?
560
304
describe the biosphere as a store of the carbon cycle
Vital for life on Earth by converting energy from the sun into carbohydrates that support life. Can store carbon for many years and transfer carbon into the soil. However through deforestation this carbon can be released back into the atmosphere very quickly.
305
how much of a humans body is carbon?
18%
306
why do you rarely find carbon in its pure form?
carbon bonds easily with other molecules
307
what is a storm hydrograph, and why is it importnat?
A graph showing river discharge over time during a storm event. Helps analyse factors affecting river flow and is a common exam topic in hydrology
308
What is baseflow in a storm hydrograph?
Normal river discharge before a storm.
309
What is the rising limb in a storm hydrograph?
The steep increase in discharge after rainfall begins.
310
What is peak discharge?
The maximum river flow after a storm
311
What is lag time in a storm hydrograph?
The delay between peak rainfall and peak discharge
312
What is the falling limb in a storm hydrograph?
The gradual decline in discharge back to baseflow
313
What is direct channel input?
Rain falling directly into the river
314
What is interception?
Water absorbed by vegetation before reaching the ground.
315
What is infiltration?
Water soaking into the soil (fastest in grassland, slowest in bare soil/rock)
316
What is percolation?
Water moving deeper into underground rock layers (aquifer).
317
What is overland flow?
Water running over the ground surface to the river
318
What is infiltration-excess flow?
When rainfall exceeds the infiltration rate (common in summer).
319
What is saturation-excess flow?
When the soil is already saturated, causing runoff (common in winter).
320
What is throughflow?
Water moving laterally through unsaturated soil to the river.
321
What is baseflow in terms of water movement?
The slowest process, where water seeps from underground into the river.
322
How does drainage basin size affect hydrographs?
Smaller basins = shorter lag time, higher peak discharge.
323
How does basin shape affect hydrographs?
Circular basins = shorter lag time; Elongated basins = longer lag time.
324
How do steep slopes affect hydrographs?
Faster flow, shorter lag time, higher peak discharge.
325
How does precipitation type affect hydrographs?
Intense/prolonged rain = higher peak, shorter lag time.
326
How does rock permeability affect hydrographs?
: Impermeable rock = faster runoff, higher peak discharge.
327
How does vegetation affect hydrographs?
More vegetation = slower flow, lower peak discharge.
328
How does soil type affect hydrographs?
-Sandy soils = more infiltration, lower peak. -Clay soils = less infiltration, higher peak.
329
How does urbanisation affect hydrographs?
More concrete & drains = faster runoff, higher peak discharge.
330
How does deforestation affect hydrographs?
Less interception = more runoff, higher peak discharge.
331
Where is the River Ribble?
Located in Lancashire, UK, draining 2,182 km².
332
Where does the River Ribble start?
In the Pennines at 442m elevation.
333
How does rainfall vary in the River Ribble basin?
1775mm at the source, 890mm at the estuary.
334
How does rock type affect the River Ribble’s flow?
-Millstone Grit (impermeable) → rapid overland flow. -Limestone → throughflow via joints and bedding planes.
335
How has human activity affected the River Ribble?
-Urbanisation → Rapid runoff from built-up areas. -Agriculture → Overgrazing & burning increase erosion & runoff.
336
Name three ways humans reduce river discharge.
1. Water extraction from rivers/boreholes. 2. Reservoirs storing water, preventing floods. 3. Afforestation increasing interception.
337
Name three ways humans increase river discharge.
1. Sewage & industrial waste adding water. 2. Inter-basin transfers bringing water from other areas. 3. Deforestation reducing interception → faster overland flow
338
Where does the Mississippi River rank in terms of drainage basin size?
It is the 4th largest drainage basin in the world (~1.2 million square miles).
339
How do water transfers and stores in the Mississippi River change?
They change naturally and due to human impact.
340
How much precipitation is lost to evapotranspiration in the Mississippi Basin?
>75% of annual precipitation is lost through evapotranspiration.
341
How does evapotranspiration affect different regions of the basin?
-Arid western areas → little runoff due to high evapotranspiration. -Wetter eastern areas → main source of river flow
342
How does seasonal variation affect runoff in the Mississippi Basin?
-Winter → More precipitation, higher runoff. -Summer → Less precipitation, lower runoff.
343
How does rainfall distribution affect the Mississippi River’s flow?
Uneven rainfall across the basin changes flow patterns throughout the year.
344
How do storms affect runoff in the Mississippi Basin?
Storms saturate soil, leading to increased surface runoff & higher discharge.
345
How do droughts impact river discharge?
-Initially → Lower discharge. -Later → Hardened soil increases rapid runoff & flooding after rain.
346
How does agriculture impact runoff in the Mississippi Basin?
-92% of the USA’s agricultural exports come from the basin. -Irrigation stores water in reservoirs, reducing natural surface flow. -Increases evapotranspiration.
347
How do dams affect runoff in the Mississippi Basin?
-43 dams hold back water. -6% of runoff lost due to evaporation from reservoirs.
348
What increases water demand in the Mississippi Basin?
Growing demand for domestic, urban, and industrial water use.
349
How will climate change affect rainfall in the Mississippi Basin?
Expected 5-inch (12.7 cm) annual rainfall reduction in lower Mississippi Basin.
350
How will climate change affect river flow in the Mississippi Basin?
Less rainfall + higher evapotranspiration → decreased runoff & river flow.
351
How could climate change impact irrigation?
Increased irrigation demand could worsen water shortages.
352
what percentage of the earths carbon is made up of the biosphere?
0.0012%
353
how many billions of tonnes of carbon is stored in the atmosphere?
750
354
describe the atmosphere as a store of the carbon cycle
Carbon is held in the form of carbon dioxide and methane. In recent decades the amount has increased due to emissions from power stations, transport and deforestation. This had contributed to the enhanced greenhouse effect and climate change.
355
what percentage of the earths carbon is made up of the atmosphere?
0.0017%
356
how many billions of tonnes of carbon is stored in the pedosphere?
1500
357
how many billions of tonnes of carbon is stored in fossil fuels?
4000
358
how many billions of tonnes of carbon is stored in the hydrosphere?
38000
359
how many billions of tonnes of carbon is stored in the lithosphere?
100000
360
describe the pedosphere as a store of the carbon cycle
Decomposition of dead organic material creates carbon store for hundreds of years. Deforestation and land use change can release carbon very quickly.
361
describe fossil fuels as a store of the carbon cycle
Hydrocarbons such as coal, oil and gas are long term stores of carbon. Since the industrial revolution they have been exploited for heat and power. The resulting combustion has pumped huge volumes of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere contributing to climate change.
362
describe the hydrosphere as a store of the carbon cycle
Very important carbon store. Carbon dioxide is absorbed from the air and river water discharges carbon carried in solution. Since the industrial revolution more carbon dioxide has been absorbed due to emissions.
363
describe the lithosphere as a store of the carbon cycle
The largest store of carbon. Long term store taking millions of years to form.
364
what percentage of the earths carbon is made up of the pedosphere?
0.003%
365
what percentage of the earths carbon is made up of fossil fuels?
0.004%
366
what percentage of the earths carbon is made up of the hydrosphere?
0.038%
367
what percentage of the earths carbon is made up of the lithosphere?
99.9%
368
over the last century how much has the carbon dioxide in the atmosphere increased by?
36%
369
what is soil composed of?
broken up lithosphere (regolith) and dead organic matter
370
what leads to the formation of fossil fuels?
burial and compaction
371
what is most of the carbon in the ocean in the form of?
bicarbonate
372
What is carbon's role in living organisms?
Carbon is a core element in sugars, starches, fats, and proteins, making up about half of the dry mass in living things
373
What are the four major carbon pools?
Atmosphere, Oceans, Earth’s Crust, and Terrestrial Ecosystems
374
How much carbon is stored in the Earth's atmosphere?
Approximately 750 PgC (mostly CO2)
375
What processes have increased atmospheric CO2 from its natural level of ~560 PgC?
Fossil fuel combustion and deforestation
376
How much carbon is held in the Earth’s oceans?
Approximately 38,000 PgC, mostly in deep waters
377
What is the primary form of stored carbon in deep ocean waters?
Dissolved inorganic carbon and carbonates.
378
How much carbon is stored in the Earth's crust?
Approximately 100,000,000 PgC in sedimentary rocks and an additional 4,000 PgC in fossil fuels.
379
How does photosynthesis contribute to the carbon cycle?
It removes ~120 PgC/year from the atmosphere, converting CO2 into plant material.
380
How much carbon is released by respiration in plants and soil organisms?
Approximately 60 PgC/year for each process
381
What role does decomposition play in the carbon cycle?
It releases CO2 as bacteria and fungi break down organic material
382
How does the ocean-atmosphere exchange affect carbon levels?
Through diffusion, oceans absorb ~92 PgC/year and release ~90 PgC/year.
383
How much carbon is released by fossil fuel combustion each year?
Approximately 6-8 PgC/year.
384
What is the estimated carbon release from deforestation and land change?
~1.5 PgC/year.
385
What has caused CO2 levels to rise ~30% above natural levels?
Human activities such as burning fossil fuels and deforestation
386
What is the greenhouse effect?
The process by which gases like CO2 trap heat in the Earth's atmosphere, contributing to global warming.
387
What is a carbon sink?
A system that absorbs more carbon than it releases, such as forests or oceans.
388
What is a carbon source?
A system that releases more carbon than it absorbs, such as fossil fuel burning.
389
What is carbon sequestration?
The process of capturing and storing atmospheric CO2.
390
What are anthropogenic emissions?
Human-made emissions from sources like industry and vehicles
390
391
What is decomposition?
The breakdown of organic material by microorganisms, releasing carbon back into the atmosphere.
391
What is the greenhouse effect?
The warming of Earth due to heat-trapping gases like CO2, methane, and water vapor
391
What are boreal forests?
Forest areas in the northern temperate zone dominated by coniferous trees such as spruce, fir, and pine.
391
What is biogeochemistry?
The study of natural processes that recycle nutrients from the environment, to organisms, and back to the environment.
391
What is an ice core?
A vertical section of ice removed from glaciers or ice sheets to study past climate patterns.
391
What is a greenhouse gas inventory?
A statistical compilation of greenhouse gases emitted by a community, state, or country.
392
What is the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC)?
An organization that assesses scientific information related to climate change and advises governments.
393
What is the Kyoto Protocol?
An international agreement to reduce worldwide greenhouse gas emissions.
394
What is longwave radiation?
Radiation emitted from the Earth and atmosphere, often referred to as infrared radiation.
395
What is soil carbon?
Carbon stored in soil, largely from organic material, which plays a key role in the carbon cycle.
396
what are the different ways that carbon moves through the slow carbon cycle?
-carbon dioxide in the atmosphere reacts with water vapour to form carbonic acid, this causes slightly acidic rainfall to fall onto the rocks and into the ocean which causes chemical weathering -this chemical weathering releases carbon back into the atmosphere and the rocks storing carbon are also transported into the ocean through run off -carbon dioxide from the atmosphere also diffuses into the ocean -this carbon dioxide is taken into shells as calcium carbonate -the marine organisms die and fall to the sea bed where they compact down to form sedimentary rock- this can then be converted to fossil fuels by heat and pressure and is stored in the lithosphere -the carbon dioxide in the lithosphere is then released on destructive plate boundaries through volcanic eruptions
397
how much carbon dioxide do volcanoes release per year?
about 200 million tonnes of carbon dioxide per year
398
how long can it take for a molecule of carbon to go through the whole of the slow carbon cycle?
between 100 and 200 million years
399
how old is the earth?
4.6 billion years old
400
what is the governing factor for the location of biomes?
latitude
401
what trees are found in boreal forests?
evergreens e.g. pine trees
402
define carbon source
a store in which the release of carbon occurs at a faster rate than it is absorbed
403
define carbon sink
a store in which the absorption of carbon occurs faster than it is released
404
define fast carbon cycle
rapid transfer of carbon compounds over years, decades and centuries
405
define slow carbon cycle
slow transfers, up to millions of years
406
what are the main transfers operating in the carbon cycle?
-respiration -decomposition -combustion -photosynthesis -burial and compaction -carbon sequestration -weathering
407
describe respiration as a transfer in the carbon cycle
-chemical process that happens in cells -glucose is converted into energy that can be used for growth -carbon dioxide is then returned to the air
408
describe decomposition as a transfer in the carbon cycle
-when organisms die they are consumed by decomposers -during this process of decomposition, carbon from their bodies are returned to the atmosphere as carbon dioxide -some organic matter passes into the soil where it may be stored for hundreds of years
409
describe combustion as a transfer in the carbon cycle
-organic matter in the presence of oxygen is converted into energy -the carbon dioxide is released into the atmosphere
410
describe burial and compaction as a transfer in the carbon cycle
-where organic matter is buried by sediments and becomes compacted -over millions of years there organic sediments containing carbon may from hydrocarbons such as coal and oil -some of the carbon dissolves releasing carbon dioxide, the rest becomes compacted to form limestone
411
describe carbon sequestration as a transfer in the carbon cycle
umbrella term used to describe transfer of carbon from the atmosphere to plants, soil, rocks and oceans
412
describe weathering as a transfer in the carbon cycle
-involves the break down and decay of rocks at or close to the surface -through chemical reactions, the rocks will slowly dissolve with the carbon being held in solution -can then be transported via the water cycle
413
what are the factors in the slow carbon cycle?
-carbon sequestration -burial and compaction -chemical weathering
414
how much carbon does the fast carbon cycle move in comparison to the slow carbon cycle?
moves 100 to 1000 times more carbon than the slow carbon cycle
415
does the fast or slow carbon cycle contain more carbon?
the slow carbon cycle
416
describe the flows in the fast carbon cycle
-flow of carbon from atmosphere to biosphere through plants photosynthesising -in the ocean phytoplankton also take in carbon from the atmosphere through photosynthesis -the carbohydrates the plants produced when the photosynthesised are consumed when animals eat the plants as they do this they release carbon dioxide from respiration and methane gas from digestion -when animals die and decompose by bacteria and fungi which break down the carbohydrates releasing carbon dioxide and methane back to the atmosphere -some of the carbon remains in the soil as humus -fire (combustion) releases carbon dioxide back into the atmosphere
417
what are peat bogs?
soil, dead organic matter and humus have decayed and become rich with water which stores massive amounts of carbon
418
why do peat bogs have little oxygen?
because the soil is so wet there's little oxygen in the soil so plants don't decompose fully
419
how long can plants be in peat bogs?
plants can be in the peat for hundreds of years and not rot away which traps massive amounts of carbon
420
how could global warming affect peat bogs?
global warming could mean peat bogs absorb more carbon or if decomposer organisms in the soil work faster and return more carbon dioxide into the atmosphere
421
how is carbon transferred to the soil in the carbon cycle?
-decomposition of leaf litter -root cell respiration and death
422
how is carbon released to the atmosphere in the carbon cycle?
-plant respiration -respiration by decomposers
423
if the leaf litter was burned in a fire, what impact would this have on the carbon cycle?
this would release massive amounts of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere and prevent carbon dioxide from entering into the soil as leaf decay
424
what are the factors of the fast carbon cycle?
-photosynthesis -respiration -decomposition -combustion
425
what is one of the key carbon stores on earth?
the cryosphere
426
describe the positive feedback loop of carbon in the Siberian Tundra
-warmer air -permafrost melting -dark rock exposed -lower albedo rate -more sunlight absorbed by the earth -warmer earth
427
what happens when permafrost melts in the tundra (negative feedback loop)?
-stored carbon dioxide is released (in form of methane) -methane is more potent to absorb atmospheric heat (20 times more potent than carbon dioxide) -this contributes to further global temperature increase -warmer conditions -more plant growth -more carbon dioxide stored by the vegetation
428
what's some evidence showing climate change is caused by humans?
-Vostok ice core, 1998, found 420,000 year old ice that was in an ice core that was 3,623m (this showed 4 climate cycles- 4 ice ages and 4 interglacial) -EPICA core was 800,000 years old and mirrored Vostok data -IPCC (Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change) said that humans are majorly responsible for climate change
429
what are the human factors driving change in the carbon cycle?
-fossil fuel combustion -cement production -land use change: deforestation -land use change: urbanisation -farming practices
430
what percentage of anthropogenic emissions is cement production?
1%
431
how much of the CO2 emissions is anthropogenic and how much is natural?
5% is anthropogenic and 95% is natural
432
how does fossil fuel combustion change the carbon cycle?
90% of anthropogenic carbon release comes from combustion of fossil fuels- the remaining 10% comes from land use change, such as deforestation, land drainage and agricultural practices
433
how have carbon dioxide concentrations increased?
since the 1960s global concentrations of carbon dioxide have increased dramatically from about 320ppm to just over 400ppm, the highest levels ever recorded
434
why have fossil fuels been burnt in increasing quantities?
because it's been driven by the rapid industrialisation of developing nations (including china)
435
where has carbon dioxide levels been measured?
the Hawaiian Volcanic Observatory
436
why have carbon dioxide emissions been measured in the Hawaiian Volcanic Observatory?
because it's quite isolated so carbon dioxide values won't be effected by changes in industry (more consistent measurements) and it's part of the USA so has enough money to do it
437
how does cement production change the carbon cycle?
for every 1000kg of cement produced, 900kg of carbon dioxide is released into the atmosphere
438
describe the make up of cement industry emissions
50% comes from the heating of calcium carbon and 40% from the burning of fuel to power the process
439
how has land use change changed the carbon cycle?
through the use of machinery, tree decomposition and slash & burn which all release CO2
440
how have rising temperatures affected the amazon rainforest?
it has caused parts of the amazon to dry out (these absorb less CO2 and are more susceptible to fires) this creates a positive feedback loop
441
how much forestry land is cut down each year and changed to other uses?
13 million hectares
442
what does forest clearing accelerate?
the decaying of dead wood, litter and below ground organic carbon
443
what does deforestation lead to?
-forest soils are moist but without the shade of trees they soon dry out -trees also help maintain the water cycle by returning vapour back to the atmosphere through transpiration
444
how does deforestation cause less carbon dioxide to be stored in the soil?
because there's less trees so less burial and compaction so less biomass in soil
445
how much of the worlds population lives in urban areas?
over half the worlds population
446
how do farming practices change the carbon cycle?
When soil is ploughed, the soil layers invert with each other (allowing air to mix in). As a result, soil microbial activity dramatically increases, resulting in more soil organic matter being decomposed. As a result, more carbon is lost to the atmosphere.
447
how much of agricultural emissions does rice paddies generate?
10%
448
list some figures about meat production and carbon dioxide
-producing 1 kilo of beef generates 65 times more CO2 than producing 1 kilo of potatoes -US produces 40.9m tonnes of meat a year -EU produced 44.5m tonnes of meat per year -China produces 78.1m tonnes of meat per year -if we were to eat half the amount of meat we would reduce greenhouse gas emissions from farming by 42%
449
what are the physical factors driving change in the carbon cycle?
-volcanoes -natural cycles -wildfires -carbon sequestration
450
how has volcanic activity caused change in the carbon cycle?
-volcanic activity returns to the atmosphere carbon that has been trapped for millions of years in rocks deep in the earths crust -volcanoes also erupt lava, which contains silicates that will slowly weather, this converts carbon dioxide in the air to carbonates in solution- in this way carbon dioxide is absorbed very slowly from the atmosphere
451
how much CO2 is emitted from volcanoes in comparison to human emissions?
human activities emit between 100 and 300 times more CO2 than volcanoes
452
how have volcanoes reduced the amount of CO2 in the atmosphere?
The warming effect of CO2 emitted by volcanoes is counterbalanced by the large amount of sulphur dioxide also given out. Conversion of this sulphur dioxide to sulphuric acid which forms fine droplets, increases the reflection of the radiation from the sun back into space, cooling the Earth's lower atmosphere.
453
what are the three different Milankovitch cycles?
-eccentricity cycle -obliquity cycle -precession of the equinoxes
454
how have wildfires caused changes in the carbon cycle?
-wildfires can be started naturally -every year they burn 3 to 4 million km^2 of land -wildfires turn carbon sinks to carbon sources
455
what does carbon sequestration involve?
involves capturing CO2 from the atmosphere and putting it into long term storages
456
what are the types of carbon sequestration?
-geological sequestration -terrestrial/biological sequestration
457
what is geological sequestration?
CO2 is captured at its source and injected as a liquid deep underground in a variety of stores (depleted oil/gas reservoirs, uneconomic coal seams, underground salt formations or the deep ocean)
458
why is the ocean good at absorbing carbon?
due to its sheer size
459
what is the advantage of the ocean as a carbon sink?
An advantage of ocean carbon sequestration is that it "sinks" to great depths within weeks or months of being captured at the surface. Once in the deep ocean, it is in a circulatory system measured in thousands of years. This happens quickly but it keeps it for a long time.
460
what is terrestrial/biological sequestration?
this involves the use of plants to capture CO2 from the atmosphere, carbon is then stored in the stems and roots of the plants (as well as in the soil)
461
what are the six stores of carbon?
-atmosphere -lithosphere -biosphere -pedosphere -cryosphere -hydrosphere
462
which sphere is the carbon budget calculated for a why?
the atmosphere because this is what's causing humans the most problems
463
what are the different impacts of changes in the carbon cycle on oceans?
-ocean acidification -ocean warming -melting sea ice -ocean salinity -sea level rise
464
how and why are coral reefs affected by ocean acidification?
-CO2 diffuses into the ocean through direct chemical exchange which creates carbonic acid, this makes the ocean less alkaline -carbonic acid reacts with carbonate ions in the water to form bicarbonate, this reduces the carbonate ions available which animals like coral and many plankton species need to create their shells -as a result the shells und up being thinner and more fragile
465
what is the global carbon budget?
the amount of carbon gained and lost in the natural and manmade workings of the world
465
what does the carbon budget contain?
-inputs -outputs -balance -deficit -surplus
466
why do we study the carbon budget?
it's essential for understanding how carbon dioxide emissions are contributing to changes in the Earth's environment in the present day
467
what is carbon commonly measured in?
petagrams (Pg)
468
what are the different impacts of changes in the carbon cycle?
-land (fast and slow carbon cycle) -ocean (ocean acidification, ocean warming, melting sea ice, ocean salinity, sea level rise) -atmosphere (tundra, carbon stored in vegetation)
469
what does ocean acidification cause?
coral bleaching and bad for biomasses
470
what two things cause ocean currents?
ocean warming and ocean salinity
471
suggest reasons why the "Net increase is soil carbon" is a variable value
because it depends on where the tree is planted as if it's planted on concrete then leaves can't decay and it depends on climate also (hot and wet)
472
how have land use decisions affect CO2 uptake?
-more wildfires leads to increased atmospheric CO2 -farmland replaces trees which means less carbon is stored -more CO2 available in atmosphere as more photosynthesis from plant growth -increased temperatures have led to increased length of growing season so may plants photosynthesise for longer -increased temperatures have caused ice to melt which releases CO2 and methane into the atmosphere -agriculture has become more intensive so more crops means less trees to take in CO2
473
what are the key stores of carbon in the carbon cycle?
-lithosphere -hydrosphere -biosphere -atmosphere
474
what are the different ways carbon can move through the carbon cycle?
-geological cycle -photosynthesis -respiration -decomposition -combustion -oceanic carbon pumps
475
how does carbon move through the geological cycle?
Carbon moves via weathering, burial, subduction, and volcanic eruptions
476
how does carbon move through photosynthesis?
Plants absorb CO2 to produce oxygen and carbohydrates
477
how does carbon move through respiration?
Plants and animals release CO2 back into the atmosphere
478
how does carbon move through decomposition?
Organic matter breaks down, returning carbon to soil/atmosphere
479
how does carbon move through combustion?
Organic materials burn, releasing CO2 and heat
480
how does carbon move through oceanic carbon pumps?
-vertical mixing: warm surface waters cool, sink, and circulate CO2 -biological pump: marine organisms absorb CO2; decaying matter releases it in deep waters
481
what are the two main components of the oceanic carbon pump?
-biological pump -physical pump
482
describe the biological pump
-transfers surface carbon to the seabed via the food web -carbon is stored long-term in the deep ocean -dependent on healthy ecosystems; disturbances can destabilize it, re-emitting carbon back into the atmosphere
483
describe the physical pump
-driven by ocean circulation in Polar Regions where colder temperatures enhance CO2 absorption -dense, cold water flows toward the deep ocean, carrying dissolved carbon -this process stores carbon for hundreds of years but is difficult to measure accurately
484
how do planktonic ecosystems play a key role in the carbon cycle?
when these micro-algae die, they contribute to carbon storage in the deep ocean and may form oil deposits over time
485
how could ocean acidification be a good thing?
-the more acidic seawater is, the better it dissolves calcium carbonate rocks -over time this reaction will allow the ocean to soak up excess CO2 because the more acidic water will dissolve more rock, release more carbonate ions and increase the oceans capacity to absorb CO2
486
why could warmer oceans reduce the effectiveness of a carbon sink?
-would decrease the abundance of phytoplankton, which grow better in cool, nutrient rich waters -this could limit the oceans ability to take carbon from the atmosphere through the biological carbon pump and lessen the effectiveness of the oceans as a carbon sink
487
why could ocean warming also be a good thing?
carbon dioxide is essential for plant and phytoplankton growth- an increase in carbon dioxide could increase their growth by fertilisation and they would take carbon dioxide directly from the water
488
why does melting sea ice amplify the warming effect?
-when ice melts the highly reflective ice is replaced by more heat absorbent water which amplifies the warming that cause it to melt in the first place -loss of ice bound algae affects marine predators, added to this is the fact that animals like polar bears rely on sea ice to get their main food source
489
why is ocean salinity decreasing?
-caused by highest levels or precipitation and higher temperatures -precipitation leads to higher river run offs that eventually reach the sea -higher temperatures cause ice sheets to melt which leads to more freshwater in the oceans
490
what are the two reasons why sea level is rising due to changes in the carbon cycle?
-melting of terrestrial ice -thermal expansion
491
how is melting of terrestrial ice causing sea level rise?
-high temperatures have led to an increased rate of summer melting as well as a drop in snowfall -this imbalance results in a significant net gain in water entering the oceans from rivers against evaporation from the ocean
492
how does thermal expansion cause sea level rise?
when water heats up it expands- warmer oceans have a greater volume so occupy more space and causing sea levels to rise
493
what effects does the enhanced greenhouse effect have?
-causes coastal flooding through sea level rise -increases frequency and intensity of storm surges -causes smog (human form of fog) which can create health problems such as lung cancer
494
what effects might the disruption of the North Atlantic Drift have on the NW Europe?
It would make the climate cooler as the North Atlantic Drift brings hot air from the equator which heats up Europes climate. North Western Europe would also be wetter.
495
What are the likely effects of the predicted sea level rise on coastal communities? How might their response depend on their level of development?
Richer coastal cities won't move even under risk of flooding as it's too expensive whereas less developed communities can just relocate and rebuild with a relatively low cost.
496
how much do geographers know about feedback loops and their impact on climate?
-we're fairly confident how levels of CO2 affects direct radiation in the atmosphere and how it will cause warming -there's probably feedback loops that we haven't discovered so we don't know their impact but we know the impact is significant
497
what are the feedback loops we do understand?
-water vapour feedback -albedo feedback
498
why is the water vapour feedback loop important?
because water vapour is the most common greenhouse gas
499
describe the water vapour feedback loop
-release of CO2 -warmer atmosphere -air expands -air holds more water vapour -warmer atmosphere
500
describe the albedo feedback loop that is positive
-warmer atmosphere -ice melts -more water exposed (lower albedo) -water warms, more ice melts -process escalates -warmer atmosphere
501
describe the albedo feedback loop that is negative
-CO2 released -warmer atmosphere -more water vapour -more clouds form -reduced albedo -less heat absorption -atmosphere cools
502
describe how the albedo feedback loop that is negative (forming clouds) can actually also be a positive feedback loop
-warmer atmosphere creates more high clouds -this prevents heat from rising -this traps heat -leads to warmer atmosphere
503
which feedback loops do we know about but aren't sure of their outcomes?
land carbon cycle
504
what is the negative feedback loop of the land carbon cycle?
-CO2 emitted -CO2 absorbed by oceans and land (about half of the CO2 emitted) -less CO2 in atmosphere
505
what is the positive feedback loop of land carbon cycle?
-warmer atmosphere -more active bacteria and soil respires more -more decomposition and more permafrost melting -more CO2 released -warmer atmosphere
506
what are the feedback loops that we don't understand at all?
-permafrost and high latitude peatlands -methane hydrates -permafrost methane
507
describe the potential methane hydrates feedback loop
-could be a very positive feedback loop on climate change -lots of methane locked in methane hydrates deep in the ocean and in the current climate they're stable but their stability is strongly temperature dependent so there's potential that as the climate warms they could destabilise and release methane into atmosphere -we know from the Paleo climate there have been occasions where methane hydrates have been thought to have released large amounts of CO2 (this could cause abrupt climate change which would be particularly bad as we wouldn't have time to adapt)
508
describe the potential permafrost methane feedback loop
-positive feedback (melts=releases CO2) -we know it's bad but we don't know how bad as we don't know how much CO2 it contains/will releasec
509
could there be other feedback loops we don't know about at all?
-yes -a warming climate may start new feedback loops -alternatively we have a fairly good understanding of todays climate but as you get further along we have less of an understanding
510
describe the role of carbonation as a link between the carbon and water cycle
-rainwater absorbs carbon -rainwater becomes acidic -calcium carbonate becomes calcium bicarbonate as rainwater meets rocks -dissolved carbon carried to oceans by rivers -new shell growth or transferred to atmosphere
511
how does phytoplankton create a negative feedback loop?
-they release dimethyl sulphide that promotes the formation of clouds -clouds reflect solar radiation -cools atmosphere However, -less sunshine might lead to a reduction in the amount of phytoplankton thereby reducing this cooling effect
512
describe a mountain thermostat negative feedback
-warmer temperatures -tree roots grow faster and deeper -more growth leads to more leaf litter and therefore more acidic water in the soil -acidic water -increases rate of weathering -less carbon in atmosphere -lower temps -climate regulated less vegetation growth
513
why does weathering decrease CO2 in atmosphere?
by sequestrating CO2 from the atmosphere to facilitate weathering there is a subsequent lowering of global temperature
514
what are some changes to the climate system, potentially caused by climate change?
-changes in the hydrological cycle -warmer land and air -warming oceans -melting ice -rising sea levels -ocean acidification -global greening -changes in ocean currents -more extreme weather
515
what are some potential impacts of changes to the climate system?
-conflict and climate migrants -localised flooding -flooding of coastal regions -damage to marine ecosystems -fisheries failing -loss of biodiversity -change in seasonality -heat stress -habitable regions of pests expands -rise in forest fires -damage to infrastructure -food insecurity -risk to water supplies
516
why is climate migration potentially a big issue?
because currently about 1 billion people live on marginalised land (it's on the margin of being able to support them) so all these people would have to migrate to somewhere else if the climate changes
517
what are the different ways humans try to reduce the impact to the carbon cycle?
-modifying land use including deforestation strategies -transport policies -geoengineering -use of renewable energy -artificial trees -geo carbon capture -stable community (BedZED) -sustainable cities
518
what does modifying land use including deforestation strategies involve?
-Preventing deforestation/encouraging reforestation -Thinking carefully about the location and sustainability of new urban settlements -Reducing the negative impact farming has on the environment -Only buy wood certified by the FSC to guarantee it was sustainably sourced -Selective logging e.g. in Malaysia they have the Selective Management System which includes replanting -In 2005, Brazil pledged to reduce logging by 80%- Infringements are punished by fines or prison -Areas of the Amazon are nature reserves where agriculture and logging is prohibited
519
how does modifying land use strategies including deforestation modify the carbon cycle?
-Can improve carbon stores by ensuring that carbon inputs are greater than carbon losses. -Grasslands: offer global greenhouse gas mitigation potential of 810 million tonnes of CO2 which would be sequestered in soil. -Croplands: can increase soil organic carbon. - Mulching (the process of covering the topsoil with plant material such as leaves, grass, twigs, crop residues, straw etc) prevents carbon losses from pedeosphere. - Reducing tillage prevents break-up of soil aggregates that protect carbon. -Forested lands and tree crops (+reforesting): Able to reduce C02 emissions to the atmosphere. Increases biomass density and thus increasing carbon density. Acts as store both above and below ground. If trees in croplands are used as renewable source of fuel they can reduce CO2 emissions.
520
what are the pros of modifying land use strategies including deforestation?
-Forests provide: regulation to climate and rainfall at regional and local scales and critical stability to the Earth’s climate via carbon storage -Cutting and burning trees adds as much greenhouse gas to the atmosphere as all the cars and trucks in the world combined -Over 250 million rural poor who rely on forests and savannah areas for subsistence and income -Loss of habitat via deforestation may force animals into populated areas where they could transmit previously unknown diseases (thought to be almost 2 million undiscovered viruses and birds in mammals and birds)
521
what are the cons of modifying land use strategies including deforestation?
Economies and individuals reliant on timbre production may suffer from restrictions on exportation and logging – in 2023, China exported the most wood (approx. 31 billion)
522
what does transport policies involve?
-design and technology: increased efficiency of engine, increased use of biofuels, improve aerodynamics, reduced weight of aircraft and engines, carbon capture within the engines, maximizing the number of seats per aircraft -movement management: towing aircraft whilst on the ground, avoiding circling, stacking, queuing, adopting fuel efficient routes -flight management: 100% occupancy of seats, cruising at lower speed, matching an aircraft to the routes
523
how do transport policies impact the carbon cycle?
* Greenhouse gas emission * Co2 emissions * Non co2 effects * Emissions at high altitudes
524
what are the pros of transport policies?
-Competition and market access: Ensuring fair competition, Liberalization and deregulation, International air transport rules -Security and safety: Air space security, Cyber security, Safety regulations
525
what are the cons of transport policies?
-Environmental concerns and sustainability: Fuel consumption and emissions, Sustainable aviation fuels, Noise pollution -Economic regulations and social impacts: Air connectivity and economic development, Social impacts of aviation, Labor issue -Geopolitical and technological impacts: Regional conflicts and sanctions, Technological advancements, Infrastructure development
526
what is geoengineering?
the large scale manipulation of an environmental process that affects the earth's climate in an attempt to slow down the effects of global warming
527
what are the types of geoengineering?
solar geoengineering and carbon geoengineering
527
what is solar geoengineering?
solar radiation management/albedo modification, it blocks incoming solar radiation and sends it back to space
528
what can solar geoengineering be done through?
-space mirrors -stratospheric aerosol injections -cloud brightening
529
what are space mirrors?
launching giant mirrors into orbit to reflect sunlight
530
what are stratospheric aerosol injections?
sulfate molecules added into the stratosphere to reflect incoming light
531
what is cloud brightening?
clouds sprayed with sea water, as the seawater evaporates it forms airborne crystals of salt which then brighten the clouds to reflect more sunlight
532
what is carbon geoengineering?
removing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and stratosphere
533
what can carbon geoengineering be done through?
-reforestation and afforestation -carbon sequestration -iron seeding
534
what is iron seeding?
iron is scattered across the ocean to stimulate the growth of carbon absorbing phytoplankton
535
how does solar geoengineering modify the carbon cycle?
-Impacts photosynthesis: by blocking incoming solar radiation it may reduce the light intensity & rate of photosynthesis so less carbon is absorbed this decreases the amount of carbon taken into the biosphere. -Carbon dioxide dissolved in the oceans is transferred to the atmosphere more quickly when the clouds are sprayed with seawater. And forms carbonic acid when dissolved in rainwater.
536
how does carbon geoengineering modify the carbon cycle?
-Iron seeding: more phytoplankton can absorb more carbon in the ocean so more carbon is absorbed into the hydrosphere this increases the carbon store in the ocean -Reforestation/afforestation: increases the size of / creates a carbon sink so more carbon is absorbed from the atmosphere.
537
what are the pros of geoengineering?
- Aims to actively reverse climate change: Technology could offer a true reversal - as methods like emissions reduction and forest conservation serve as forms of mitigation, but they do not actively reverse damage done by human behavior - Results could be rapid: Certain methods, such as seeding the ocean with iron particles could lower average temperatures on the planet faster than could be achieved by changing human behaviors - It could create jobs: Geoengineering research and initiatives create jobs for scientists, engineers and other workers - Some methods are affordable - Aware of how it works - bid volcanic eruptions cool the planet this way
538
what are the cons of geoengineering?
- Some methods are expensive: Huge investment - for just a fraction of the outlay of a space mirror system, the development of clean renewable energy can be done; the same amount of money can be spent on solving the energy crisis once rather than trying to mitigate the effects - Unethical and disturbing: Geoengineering makes wasteful, polluting, resource-depleting ways on earth seem perfectly acceptable (opinion of environmentalists) - Politically impossible? : Earth’s 200-plus nations have found it difficult to agree on modest cuts to CO2 emissions so how could they agree on geo engineering?: Different schemes are bound to affect different countries and continents to different extents; for example, cloud seeding could lead to benefits for one country, but floods or droughts elsewhere
539
What is renewable energy?
Energy from sources that are naturally replenished on a human timescale, such as solar, wind, and water.
540
How does solar energy work?
It uses solar panels or thermal systems to capture sunlight and convert it into electricity or heat.
541
What is wind energy?
It involves wind turbines converting wind's kinetic energy into mechanical energy to generate electricity.
542
How is electricity generated using hydropower?
By using flowing water to spin turbines, which then convert mechanical energy into electrical energy.
543
What is geothermal energy?
Energy derived from heat beneath the Earth’s surface, used for electricity or direct heating.
544
What is biomass energy?
Energy from burning or converting organic material like wood or crop waste into fuel.
545
What are tidal and wave energies?
They harness the movement of ocean tides and waves to generate electricity.
546
Why is renewable energy environmentally friendly?
It emits little to no greenhouse gases and has a smaller environmental footprint.
547
How does renewable energy help the carbon cycle?
By reducing CO2 emissions, aiding carbon absorption, and supporting carbon sequestration.
548
What makes biomass energy potentially carbon neutral?
The CO2 released when burned is offset by the CO2 absorbed during plant growth.
549
What are some pros of renewable energy?
Environmentally friendly, unlimited supply, job creation, low running costs, healthier for people.
550
What are some cons of renewable energy?
Inconsistent supply, high initial costs, large land use, limited regional viability, material impacts.
551
what are artificial trees and what do they involve?
Klaus Lackner, Columbia University, has come up with a technique that he thinks could solve the problem. Lackner has designed an artificial tree that passively removes carbon dioxide from the air using “leaves” that are 1,000 times more efficient than true leaves that use photosynthesis. The leaves are coated in a resin that contains sodium carbonate, which pulls carbon dioxide out of the air and stores it as a bicarbonate on the leaf. To remove the carbon dioxide, the leaves are rinsed in water vapour and can dry naturally in the wind, soaking up more carbon dioxide. Artificial trees stand passively in the wind, removing CO2 from the air faster and at higher levels than natural trees achieve by photosynthesis ad the product is either to be used industrially or to be sequestered. Collects about a ton of carbon per day from the air.
552
what are the issues with artificial trees?
It is expensive to make and install artificial trees. The cost of the technology is dropping, but not to a point where it’s affordable to install “forests” of these systems
553
what are the advantages of artificial trees?
-It can remove 1000 times more carbon than real trees, making it more effective. -The more of the “trees” produced the more the cost will go down.
554
what does carbon capture involve?
- capturing CO₂ emissions from industrial processes - CO₂ is compressed and transported via pipelines - then injected into rock formations deep underground for permanent storage - can also mean removal of CO₂ directly or indirectly from the atmosphere
555
what is carbon capture?
Carbon capture refers to technologies that trap carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions from sources like power plants and industrial processes before they enter the atmosphere
556
what happens to the captured carbon dioxide in carbon capture?
-Stored underground in geological formations (Carbon Capture and Storage - CCS). -Used in industrial applications or enhanced oil recovery (Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage - CCUS). -Extracted from the air through Direct Air Capture (DAC), which removes CO₂ from ambient air. from ambient
557
how does carbon capture modify the carbon cycle?
-Carbon capture artificially removes CO₂ from the fast carbon cycle, preventing it from accumulating and cycling in the atmosphere and Reduces the amount in it. -It slows down human-caused climate change by reducing greenhouse gas concentrations. -In cases where CO₂ is reused (e.g., in industrial applications), it may re-enter the cycle, but in a controlled way. -Natural carbon sinks (e.g., forests and oceans) still play a crucial role, but carbon capture supplements them. -Strong compresses CO₂ Underground
558
what are the pros of carbon capture?
-Reduces CO₂ emissions from fossil fuel industries. -Can be retrofitted to existing infrastructure. -Supports hard-to-decarbonize sectors (e.g., cement, steel). -CCS + bioenergy (BECCS) can be "carbon negative" by removing more CO₂ than emitted
559
what are the cons of carbon capture?
-Expensive and energy-intensive. -Uncertainty about long-term storage security (risk of leaks). - Can prolong fossil fuel reliance instead of promoting renewables. -Requires significant infrastructure and policy support.
560
what is BedZED?
-BedZED, in Sutton, south London, has gone down in history as the UK’s first large-scale, mixed-use sustainable community. - It has been an inspiration for low-carbon, environmentally-friendly housing developments around the world.
561
what does BedZED involve?
- 27% reduction in electricity consumption and 36% reduction in gas consumption between 2012 and 2015. - An on-site car club, ample secure cycle parking, excellent public transport links and 0.6 car parking spaces per home. - Major energy savings provided by high levels of insulation, airtightness and passive solar heating design. Electricity savings provided by solar photovoltaic arrays integrated into the buildings. - Concrete floor and ceiling slabs and the concrete blocks in the exterior walls, along with its structural steel frame, give BedZED most of its thermal mass. This helps to maintain temperatures at a comfortable level throughout the year.
562
how does BedZED modify the carbon cycle?
- BedZED, a zero-carbon community, alters the carbon cycle by significantly reducing carbon emissions through energy efficiency measures and renewable energy sources, aiming to achieve a net-zero carbon footprint. -For example, BedZED promotes sustainable transportation options, such as electric vehicles, and integrates charging infrastructure to further reduce carbon emissions from transportation. - BedZED creates green spaces and roof gardens to help absorb CO2 and promote biodiversity.
563
what are the pros of BedZED?
-BEDZED was designed to reduce energy use significantly. The homes are built with high insulation standards, solar panels, and a combined heat and power (CHP) system that provides low-carbon heating and electricity. This reduces residents’ carbon footprints and lowers overall energy consumption. - BEDZED promotes sustainable transport options. The site has fewer car parking spaces than traditional developments, encouraging walking, cycling, and the use of public transportation. The development also supports car-sharing initiatives. - The development uses sustainable materials, including recycled bricks, wood, and natural insulation materials. The buildings are designed to be energy-efficient, with features such as south-facing windows to maximize solar gain and thick insulation to minimize heat loss
564
what are the cons of BedZED?
- While BEDZED was pioneering in its design, some of the sustainable technologies, such as the CHP system and the green roof designs, have faced challenges with maintenance and performance over time. The expected energy savings haven't always been fully realized in practice. - Despite its energy-efficient design, there have been some issues related to the actual energy performance of the buildings. For example, residents sometimes report that the homes can feel cold during winter, and energy savings have varied, depending on individual usage and maintenance.