C9-chemistry Of The Atmosphere Flashcards
(12 cards)
What are dangerous consequences of climate change
Ice caps melt
Change in rainfall patterns
Change in temperature
Frequency and severity of storms increase
What is carbon footprint
The measure of how much carbon dioxide is released into the atmosphere as a result of people’s actions
What is greenhouse effect
Keeps the earth warm - absorbs long waves radiation reflected off surface
What are the percentages of gases on earth
Approximately 80% nitrogen
Approximately 20% oxygen
Less than 1% of other gases
How is carbon monoxide dangerous
Stops blood form doing its job of carrying oxygen around the body
Lack of oxygen can lead to fainting,a coma or death
No colour or smell so very hard to detect
What is feedstock
Used to make plastics
How does combustion of fossil fuels affect people
If particulates are inhaled, they can get stuck in the lungs and cause damage - lead to respiratory problems
Bad for environment
What are ways of reducing carbon footprint
Renewable energy sources
Capture co2
Use more efficient processes
Government can tax companies or individuals based on amount of greenhouse gases they emit
How is making reduction still difficult
Carbon capture and storage are new ideas, so still at development stage
Many renewable energy technologies are expensive
How can an individual reduce their carbon footprint
Choosing to cycle or walk instead of using car
Reducing how much they use air travel
Doing anything that saves energy e.g. turn heating down
What are the phases of the earths evolution
1.volcanoes give out gases
2.oceans,algae and green plants absorbed CO2
3.some carbon became trapped in fossil fuels and rocks
4.green plants and algae produce oxygen by photosynthesis
What forms of human activity affects the amount of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere
Deforestation
Agriculture
Burning fossil fuels
Creating waste
