4.9.1 Flashcards
Greenhouse effect
greenhouse gases in the atmosphere maintain temperatures on Earth high enough to support life
allow SHORT WAVELENGTH radiation to pass through the atmosphere to the earth’s surface but absorb the OUTGOING LONG WAVELENGTH radiation from the earth causing an increase in temperature
water vapour, CO2 and methane are greenhouse gases
increase in greenhouse gases
carbon dioxide—combustion of fossil fuels, deforestation
methane—more animal farming (digestion, waste decomposition), decomposition of rubbish in landfill sites
climate change bad
sea levels rise—causing flooding and increased coastal erosion
more frequent and severe storms
changes in the amount of timing and distribution of rainfall
temperature nad water stress for humans and wildlife
changes in the food-producing capacity of some regions
changes to the distribution of wildlife species
carbon footprint
total amount of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases emitted over the full life cycle of a product, service or event
actions to reduce the carbon footprint
increased use of alternative energy supplies
energy conservation
carbon capture and storage (where CO2 is trapped in solvents and stored under ground)
carbon taxes and licences
carbon off setting including through tree planting
carbon neutrality—zero net release
problems of reducing carbon footprint
scientific disagreement over causes and consequences of global climate change
lack of public information and education lifestyles changes
economic considerations
incomplete international cooperation
advantages of complete combustion
less soot is made
more heat per gram of fuel is released
CO isn’t produced
pollution from combustion
CO2
H20
CO
Sulphur dioxide
Nitrogen oxides
particulates
sulphur dioxide and nitrogen oxides
may cause respiratory problems in humans
cause acid rain
damages plants and buildings
