Chemistry in the atmosphere Flashcards
When was earth formed?
4.6 billion years ago
What gases does volcanic activity releases?
- Carbon dioxide
- Water vapour
- Small proportions of methane and ammonia
What happens as a result of plant and algae evolvement?
- C02 is reduced as plants take it in giving out 02
2.microorganisms that can’t tolerate oxygen are killed off - Carbon form co2 locked in sedimentary rocks formed form shells and skeletons of marine organisms
- Other gases react with oxygen to release nitrogen
- Nitrogen is also produced by bacteria removing nitrates form decaying plant material
What are the gases of today atmosphere?
20% oxygen
80% nitrogen
Co2 has significantly decreased
Why has co2 decreased?
Carbon locked up in sedimentary rocks and fossils fuels.
The reaction between co2 and sea water which produces insoluble carbonates that are deposited as sediment and soluble hydrogen carbonates.
How is coal formed?
It is a sedimentary rock formed from plant deposits that were buried and compressed over millions of years.
What radiation passes from the sun?
High energy, short wavelength infrared radiation.
What radiation is reflected by the earth?
Lower energy, longer wavelength infrared radiation.
What activities increase methane levels?
- The decomposition of rubbish in landfill sites
- The increase in animal farming- it is produced by animals during their digestion and by the decomposition of their waste materials.
What impact can global climate change have?
- A rise in sea levels- floods, coastal erosion
- More frequent, severe storms
- Changes in rainfall
- More extreme weather events- heatwaves, droughts
- Changes to distribution of plants/animals
- Food shortages
How can carbon footprint be reduced?
- Alternative energy supplies
- Wasting less energy
- CCS-carbon capture and storage
- Carbon taxes and licenses
- Tree planting
- Encourage carbon-neutral product eusage
