Water and Carbon - In the Atmosphere Flashcards
How did the link between water and carbon come about?
Earth formed 4.5 million years ago.
Whilst forming, volcanoes were always erupting: releasing carbon dioxide,ammonia and water vapour.
Water vapour would rise and condense, producing rain.
Rainfall was heavy and constant, often lasting thousands of years.
This eventually settled and formed the oceans and rivers, alongside the water deposited by comets.
As simple bacterias formed, oxygen was released as a by-product.
Large amounts of carbon dioxide was sequestrated into the land and oceans.
A balance of gases was created in the atmosphere which promoted life on earth and created different climates.
Explain the process of carbonation.
Carbon dioxide dissolves in rainwater and produces acid rain.
Acid rain dissolves CaCO3 amd makes HCO3 (bicarbonate).
HCO3 is then used for shell growth e.g clams and mussles.
