5.9 Chemistry of the Atmosphere

Question 1

Acid rain

Answer 1

Rain that is acidic due to dissolved gases, such as sulfur dioxide, produced from the burning of fossil fuels

Question 2

Carbon footprint

Answer 2

The total amount of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases emitted over the full life cycle of a product

Question 3

Environmental implication

Answer 3

The effect that the activity has on the environment

Question 4

Fossil fuels

Answer 4

Natural fuels such as coal and gas, formed in the past from the remains of living organisms

Question 5

Global climate change

Answer 5

A long-term shift in global climate patterns

Question 6

Global dimming

Answer 6

A gradual reduction in the amount of light reaching the Earth’s surface.

This can be caused by carbon particulates

Question 7

Greenhouse effect

Answer 7

The increase in the temperature of the Earth’s atmosphere due to the greenhouse gases in the atmosphere trapping infra-red radiation from the surface

Question 8

Greenhouse gases

Answer 8

Greenhouse gases include water vapour, carbon dioxide and methane

Greenhouse gases in the atmosphere maintain temperatures on Earth high enough to support life.

Question 9

Particulates

Answer 9

Particulates cause global dimming and health problems for humans.

Carbon particulates (soot) are a product of incomplete combustion

Question 10

Photosynthesis

Answer 10

Oxygen was produced in the early atmosphere by photosynthesis of plants and algae.

This simultaneously decreased the amount of carbon dioxide in the early atmosphere.

Equation for photosynthesis: 6CO₂ + 6H₂O → C₆H₁₂O₆ + 6O₂

Question 11

Pollutants

Answer 11

A substance introduced into the environment that has undesired effects