Topic 9 – Chemistry of the Atmosphere

Question 1

Acid rain

Answer 1

Rain that is acidic due to dissolved gases, such as sulfur dioxide, produced from
the burning of fossil fuels.

Question 2

Carbon footprint

Answer 2

The total amount of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases emitted
over the full life cycle of a product.

Question 3

Environmental implication

Answer 3

The effect that the activity has on the environment.

Question 4

Fossil fuels

Answer 4

Natural fuels such as coal and gas, formed in the past from the remains of
living organisms.

Question 5

Global climate change

Answer 5

A long-term shift in global climate patterns.

Question 6

Global dimming

Answer 6

A gradual reduction in the amount of light reaching the Earth’s surface.
This can be caused by carbon particulates.

Question 7

Greenhouse effect

Answer 7

The increase in the temperature of the Earth’s atmosphere due to the
greenhouse gases in the atmosphere trapping infra-red radiation from the surface.

Question 8

Greenhouse gases

Answer 8

Greenhouse gases include water vapour, carbon dioxide and methane.
Greenhouse gases in the atmosphere maintain temperatures on Earth high enough to
support life.

Question 9

Particulates

Answer 9

Particulates cause global dimming and health problems for humans. Carbon
particulates (soot) are a product of incomplete combustion.

Question 10

Photosynthesis
.

Answer 10

Oxygen was produced in the early atmosphere by photosynthesis of plants
and algae. This simultaneously decreased the amount of carbon dioxide in the early atmosphere. Equation for photosynthesis:
6CO2 + 6H2O → C6H12O6 + 6O2

Question 11

Pollutants

Answer 11

A substance introduced into the environment that has undesired effects.