Lesson 13

Question 1

What is anthropogenic climate change?

Answer 1

Climate change caused by humans by increasing GHGs in atmosphere and reducing carbon sinks through activities such as deforestation, increasing enhanced greenhouse effect

Question 2

Describe how the greenhouse effect works

Answer 2

• Radiation from sun passes into atmosphere
• Some is reflected into space
• Some radiation is absorbed by Earth and reemitted as long wave infrared radiation
• Some escapes into space
• Most absorbed by GHGs, warming the planet

Question 3

What is acid rain?

Answer 3

Rainwater with pH below 5.6, typically between 4.4 and 4.2

Question 4

How are countries around the world reducing acid rain?

Answer 4

• Clear air Act in USA had pollution limits which helped cut 88% of SO2 emissions between 1990-2027
• Coal in UK is no longer used
• China reduced emissions by 75%

Question 5

Describe impacts of acid rain?

Answer 5

• Damages plantlife
• Weathers certain types of rock
• Damages aquatic environments
• Pollutes air

Question 6

What is a trans-boundary pollution event?

Answer 6

Pollution event which impacts other countries than the originating country