C9 - Chemistry Of The Atmosphere Flashcards
(21 cards)
Front
Back
What was Earth’s early atmosphere mostly made of?
Carbon dioxide with little or no oxygen.
Where did the early atmospheric gases come from?
Volcanic activity.
How did oxygen levels increase in the atmosphere?
Photosynthesis by algae and plants.
How did carbon dioxide levels decrease over time?
It dissolved in oceans and was used in photosynthesis.
What is the approximate composition of today’s atmosphere?
78% nitrogen, 21% oxygen, 1% other gases (including CO₂).
What is a greenhouse gas?
A gas that traps heat in the Earth’s atmosphere.
Name three greenhouse gases.
Carbon dioxide, methane, and water vapour.
What is the greenhouse effect?
Greenhouse gases trap heat, keeping Earth warm.
How does human activity increase carbon dioxide levels?
Burning fossil fuels and deforestation.
How is methane released into the atmosphere?
From agriculture (e.g. cows) and landfills.
What is global warming?
The long-term increase in Earth’s average temperature.
What are the possible effects of climate change?
Rising sea levels, more extreme weather, and habitat loss.
What is a carbon footprint?
The total amount of carbon dioxide emitted by a person, product, or process.
How can we reduce carbon footprints?
Use renewable energy, increase efficiency, and reduce waste.
What are some challenges of reducing carbon emissions?
Cost, impact on lifestyle, and economic factors.
What is formed when fuels burn incompletely?
Carbon monoxide and soot (particulates).
Why is carbon monoxide dangerous?
It is toxic and prevents oxygen transport in the blood.
What are particulates?
Tiny solid particles that can cause respiratory problems.
What pollutants are released when fossil fuels are burned?
Carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, sulfur dioxide, and particulates.
What is acid rain and what causes it?
Rain that is acidic due to sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides dissolving in water.
