C13 Our atmosphere

Question 1

atmosphere

Answer 1

the relatively thin layer of gases that surround planet Earth

Question 2

carbon capture and storage

Answer 2

a technique that involves capturing carbon dioxide produced by burning fossil fuels and pumping it underground to be absorbed by porous rocks so that it is not released into the atmosphere

Question 3

carbon footprint

Answer 3

the total amount of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases emitted over the full life cycle of a product, service or event

Question 4

global dimming

Answer 4

a process that reduces the amount of sunlight reaching the Earth’s surface. It is caused by particulates in the atmosphere reflecting light back into space before it can reach Earth

Question 5

incomplete combustion

Answer 5

when a fuel burns in insufficient oxygen, producing carbon monoxide as a toxic product

Question 6

nitrogen oxides

Answer 6

chemical compounds produced when high temperatures cause nitrogen gas in the air to react with oxygen. Nitrogen oxides are toxic and can cause acid rain

Question 7

particulate

Answer 7

small solid particle given off from motor vehicles as a result of incomplete combustion of its fuel