Oceans 2: Greenhouse Effect

Question 1

Explain how an increase in the concentration of a green house gas leads to enhanced greenhouse effect ( 2 )

Answer 1

( earth emits IR )

1. GHGs absorb IR from earth
2. More GHGs = more IR absorbed

Question 2

Explain how GHG molecules are involved in the process of energy transfer that start with UV radiation from the sun and result in warming of troposphere ( 5 marks )

Answer 2

1. Earth absorbs UV + radiates IR
2. GHG molecules absorb IR
3. Bonds vibrate
4. Vibrational energy becomes kinetic energy
5. Kinetic energy becomes thermal energy
6. Molecules radiate IR back out