topic 9 Chemistry of the Atmosphere Flashcards
What was the early atmosphere like
Mostly carbon dioxide
no oxygen
water vapor
nitrogen released by volcanos
small amounts of methane and ammonia
How did carbon dioxide levels decrease over time
through photosynthesis
formation of fossil fuels
What are green house gases and how do they cause global warming
carbon dioxide methane and water vapor
Greenhouse gases absorb longwave infrared radiation and trap heat into the atmosphere
What are the main human activities that increase greenhouse gases
Deforestation less tress= less CO2 removed through photosynthesis
Burning fossil fuels release CO2
Agriculture cows and rice fields produce methane
Landfill sites produce methane
What are the dangers of climate change
Rise in global temps causing ice caps to melt and rising sea levels
Extreme weather storms
Agriculture changes reduced food production
How can we reduce greenhouse gases
Renewable energy instead of fossil fuels
Improved energy efficiency eg insulation led lights
Reduce deforestation
Car sharing+ electric cars
Less meat and rice consumption
What is carbon footprint
The amount of greenhouse gases emitted in environment
What are the main pollutants of burning fossil fuels
Carbon dioxide
Carbon monoxide
Sulfur dioxide
Nitrogen oxides
How does acid rain form and what are its effects
Through sulfur dioxide which is released during combustion of fossil fuels
Through nitrogen oxide caused by heat of engines
Effects Damages trees and plants, Makes lakes acids harming aquatic life, Corrodes building (limestone
