Chapter 13

Question 1

History of the Earth’s atmosphere

Answer 1

Formed by volcanic activity
Consisted mainly of carbon dioxide, as well as nitrogen and water vapour.
Oxygen levels increased as plant life spread over the Earth and photosynthesis increased

Question 2

Carbon entrapment

Answer 2

Carbon became trapped in sedimentary rock and fossil fuels

Question 3

Greenhouse gases

Answer 3

Levels of carbon dioxide are beginning to rise again due to the use of fossil fuels, which had trapped carbon dioxide
The release of greenhouse gases will ultimately increase the global temperature.

Question 4

Atmospheric pollutants

Answer 4

Nitrogen oxides: Oxidation of nitrogen gas in air at high temperatures in vehicle engines. Causes breathing problems and acid rain
Particulates: Burning diesel. Causes global dimming and possibly damages the cells in our lungs, causing cancer.