4.4.1 - The Earth's Atmosphere Flashcards
(37 cards)
State the percentage of nitrogen in the atmosphere.
78%
State the percentage of oxygen in the atmosphere.
21%
State the percentage of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere.
0.04%
State the percentage of other gases in the atmosphere.
0.06% - Other
0.9% - Argon
Describe where the gases in the early atmosphere came from.
Volcanic Eruptions
Describe how the percentage of oxygen in the atmosphere increased.
Evolution of photosynthetic organisms.
Describe how the percentage of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere decreased.
- Photosynthesising organisms took in carbon dioxide
- Carbon dioxide also dissolved in oceans to form sedimentary rocks.
What is the word equation for photosynthesis?
carbon dioxide + water -> glucose + oxygen
Give three ways of reducing carbon footprint.
- carbon capture and storage
- recycling carbon
- carbon offsetting
- renewable energy
- using public transport
- limit electricity usage
Which pollutants cause acid rain?
- Sulphur dioxide
- Nitrous oxides
What are the negative effects of acid rain?
- damages plant and buildings
- harms living organisms in ponds, lakes and rivers
Why is carbon monoxide dangerous?
- It’s colourless and odourless
- It’s toxic and puts strain on the heart
Where are nitrous oxides produced and why?
In high temp environments (car engines) where there is energy to cause the unreactive Nitrogen to react with oxygen in the air
What are the two main sources of sulphur dioxide?
- Burning coal
- Burning diesel
How are particulates bad for our health?
They get into our respiratory system and into our blood stream
Describe how clouds are formed.
Evaporated water rises and condenses in the cool atmosphere.
Why did levels of nitrogen rise over time?
During the volcanic eruptions, nitrogen was also released. Nitrogen is a very unreactive gas. Therefore, it is not removed from the atmosphere quickly.
Define what a greenhouse gas is.
Gases responsible for global warming
Name four greenhouse gases.
- Carbon Dioxide
- Methane
- Nitrous Oxide
- Water Vapor
Suggest three ways humans increase greenhouse gas emission.
- Burning fossil fuels
- Deforestation
- Transport
What is the main effect of a rise in greenhouse gases?
Ice caps melting causing sea levels to increases.
Describe the greenhouse effect.
The absorption of the heat in the atmosphere caused by the build up of greenhouse gases.
Why is the greenhouse effect important?
Keeps the Earth warm enough for life to exist
What is the word equation for respiration?
Glucose + Oxygen -> Water + Energy
