Movement of Carbon - Volcanic Activity

Question 1

Does carbon dioxide emitted from volcanic activities cause global warming?

Answer 1

United States of Geological Survey says ‘carbon dioxide released in recent volcanic eruptions has never caused detectable global warming of the atmosphere’

Question 2

‘carbon dioxide released in recent volcanic eruptions has never caused detectable global warming of the atmosphere’, why is this the case?

Answer 2

Warming effect of Co2 is counterbalanced by sulphur dioxide given off.
Sulphur dioxide converts to sulphuric acid forming fine droplets.
Increases reflection of sun radiation back into space, cooling Earth’s lower atmosphere.

Question 3

The amounts of carbon dioxide released haven’t been enough to detect global warming. Give evidence to prove this.

Answer 3

Studies showing global volcanic Co2 emissions show terrestrial and sub-marine volcanoes emit less than 1% of carbon dioxide.