Environmental Problems with burning fossil fuels Flashcards
What are the problem associated with burning fossil fuels?
Release of sulphur dioxide (causes acid rain), release of CO2 and particulates.
What is complete combustion?
When all the fuel burns because there is plenty of oxygen.
What is incomplete combustion?
When there is a lack of oxygen and not all the fuel burns. Particulates and unburned fuel is released. Carbon monoxide is released.
What does sulphur dioxide cause?
Causes acid rain because sulphur dioxide mixes with clouds and forms dilute sulphuric acid.
Causes acidic lakes and kills plants and animals.
What affect does acid rain have on limestone buildings and why?
Limestone is damaged by acid rain because:
Carbonate+acid—-> carbon dioxide+salt+water
How can acid rain be reduced?
By reducing sulphur emissions by burning less fossil fuels. Or sulfur can be removed either before or after the fuel is burnt.
What does carbon dioxide cause?
Global warming
What do particulates cause?
Global dimming- less sunlight reaches the Earth because particulates reflect sunlight back into space.
