☁️ • Module 7 : The Atmosphere Flashcards
What are the four main layers of the atmosphere?
Troposphere, stratosphere, mesosphere, thermosphere.
What is the composition of the atmosphere?
78% nitrogen, 21% oxygen, and small amounts of carbon dioxide, argon, and water vapor.
What is the function of the ozone layer?
It absorbs harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun.
What is the natural greenhouse effect?
A process where greenhouse gases trap heat, keeping Earth warm enough for life.
What causes smog?
Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from industry, vehicle emissions, and temperature inversion.
What causes acid rain?
Sulfur dioxide (SO₂) and nitrogen oxides (NOₓ) reacting with water vapor in the atmosphere.
What causes ozone layer depletion?
Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) breaking down ozone molecules.
What is the enhanced greenhouse effect?
Excess greenhouse gases (CO₂, water vapor, methane) trapping too much heat, causing climate change.
How does smog affect human health?
It causes respiratory problems, lung diseases, and eye irritation.
How does acid rain impact the environment?
It acidifies water bodies, harms fish, damages crops, and erodes buildings.
What are the effects of ozone depletion?
Increased UV radiation, higher skin cancer and cataract rates, and damage to vegetation.
How does climate change affect the planet?
Melting ice sheets, rising sea levels, flooding, loss of land, and forced migration.
How can individuals reduce their carbon footprint?
Using less fossil fuel, saving energy, and adopting sustainable transport.
How do catalytic converters help reduce pollution?
They convert harmful vehicle emissions into less harmful gases.
How does flue-gas desulfurization reduce acid rain?
It removes sulfur dioxide from industrial emissions before they enter the atmosphere.
How do governments manage transport pollution?
Through policies promoting public transport, electric vehicles, and fuel efficiency.
How does afforestation help reduce pollution?
Trees absorb carbon dioxide, reducing greenhouse gas levels.
