C9 - Chem Of The Atmosphere

Question 1

The early atmosphere was probably made up of?

Answer 1

Mainly carbon dioxide and virtually no oxygen gas.
As intense volcanic activity released gases and nitrogen built up over time.

Question 2

Absorption of carbon dioxide from atmosphere.

Answer 2

1. Water vapour condensed to form oceans
2. CO2 absorbed for photosynthesis
3. Carbon became locked up in rocks and fossil fuels that formed as dead organisms were compressed by layers of sediment.

Question 3

What are the three greenhouse gases?

Answer 3

Carbon dioxide
Methane
Water vapour

Question 4

What is the greenhouse effect?

Answer 4

When greenhouse gases in the atmosphere absorb long wavelength radiation and re- radiate it in all directions, including back towards earth helping keep earth warm.

Question 5

What are the 4 causes of increased carbon dioxide and methane?

Answer 5

1. Deforestation - means less CO2 is removed by photosynthesis.
2. Burning fossil fuels releases CO2.
3. Farm animals produce methane.
4. Decomposition of landfill and agricultural waste releases carbon dioxide and methane.

Question 6

What are four consequences of climate change?

Answer 6

1. Flooding and erosion in coastal areas due to melting of the polar ice caps causing sea levels to rise.
2. More frequent and severe storms.
3. Difficulty producing food in certain areas if temperature and rainfall patterns change.
4. Change in distribution of some wild species of habitats change.

Question 7

What is carbon footprint and what can reduce it?

Answer 7

How much carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases are released over something’s full life cycle.
Reducing carbon dioxide and methane emissions reduces the carbon footprint.

Question 8

What can pollution of carbon monoxide do?

Answer 8

Stops blood from transporting enough oxygen around the body - this can cause fainting, coma or death.

Question 9

What can pollution of carbon particulates do?

Answer 9

Cause respiratory problems and global dimming.

Question 10

What can sulfur dioxide and oxides of nitrogen cause?

Answer 10

Acid rain
Respiratory problems
Damage to plants, statues and buildings