C9-Chemistry of the Atmosphere KW

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 5

Greenhouse gases

Answer 5

Greenhouse gases include water vapour, carbon dioxide and methane. Greenhouse gases in the atmosphere maintain temperatures on Earth high enough to support life

Question 6

Greenhouse effect

Answer 6

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 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

Photosynthesis

Answer 7

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.

Question 7

Particulates

Answer 7

Particulates cause global dimming and health problems for humans. Carbon particulates (soot) are a product of incomplete combustion

Question 8

Pollutants

Answer 8

A substance introduced into the environment that has undesired effects.