C9 Chemistry of the Atmosphere Flashcards
. What are the proportions of gases in today’s atmosphere?
80% nitrogen
20% oxygen
Small amounts of carbon dioxide, water vapor, and noble gases
What was the early atmosphere like compared to today?
Mainly carbon dioxide with little or no oxygen
Similar to the atmospheres of Mars and Venus today
Small amounts of nitrogen, methane, and ammonia
How did the early atmosphere form?
Intense volcanic activity released gases
Water vapor condensed to form oceans
Carbon dioxide dissolved in oceans, forming carbonate sediments
What is the word equation for photosynthesis?
Carbon dioxide + water → glucose + oxygen
How did oxygen levels increase in the atmosphere?
Algae and plants carried out photosynthesis
How did carbon dioxide levels decrease in the atmosphere?
Dissolved in oceans and formed carbonate sediments
Absorbed by plants for photosynthesis
Formed sedimentary rocks (limestone) and fossil fuel
Name three greenhouse gases.
Carbon dioxide, methane, water vapor
How do greenhouse gases warm the Earth?
They absorb long-wavelength infrared radiation
This radiation is trapped in the atmosphere, keeping the Earth warm
Name two human activities that increase carbon dioxide levels.
Burning fossil fuels (coal, oil, gas)
Deforestation (fewer trees to absorb CO₂)
Name two human activities that increase methane levels.
Cattle farming (methane from digestion)
Landfills (methane from decomposing waste)
What are four potential effects of global climate change?
Rising sea levels
More extreme weather (storms, heatwaves)
Changes in biodiversity and habitats
Food and water shortages
What is the carbon footprint?
The total amount of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases emitted over the life cycle of a product, service, or event
How can we reduce our carbon footprint?
Use renewable energy sources
Improve energy efficiency
Reduce waste and recycle
Eat less meat (reducing methane emissions)
What gases are released when fuels are burned?
Carbon dioxide (CO₂)
Carbon monoxide (CO)
Sulfur dioxide (SO₂)
Oxides of nitrogen (NOₓ)
Particulates (soot)
How is sulfur dioxide (SO₂) formed and what does it cause?
Formed from burning fuels that contain sulfur
Causes acid rain and respiratory problems
Why is carbon monoxide dangerous?
It is toxic, colorless, and odorless
It binds to hemoglobin in red blood cells, preventing oxygen transport
What is the effect of particulates in the atmosphere?
Cause global dimming (reduce sunlight reaching Earth)
Can lead to respiratory problems in humans
