Chemistry of the Atmosphere

Cards (22)

  • What was the early atmosphere made mostly of?
    Carbon dioxide.
  • How did the oceans form?
    Water vapour condensed.
  • How did the amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere decrease to today's levels?
    It dissolved into oceans, photosynthesis, formed fossil fuels and sedimentary rock
  • How did the amount of oxygen in the atmosphere increase to today's levels?
    Photosynthesis of algae and plants.
  • How has the amount of nitrogen in the atmosphere changed over time?
    Increased because it is unreactive.
  • Why can't scientists be sure about the composition of the early atmosphere?
    It was billions of years ago and so evidence is limited.
  • What is the current composition of the atmosphere?
    80% nitrogen, 20% oxygen, less than 1% carbon dioxide, water vapour and noble gases.
  • Name three greenhouse gases.
    Carbon dioxide, methane and water vapour.
  • What type of radiation is emitted by the sun and absorbed y the Earth?
    Short wavelength radiation
  • What type of radiation is emitted by the Earth?
    Long wavelength infrared radiation.
  • What type of radiation do greenhouse gases absorb?
    Long wavelength infrared radiation.
  • Give two ways that recent human activities have increased carbon dioxide levels.
    Burning fossil fuels, deforestation
  • Give two ways that recent human activities have increased methane levels.
    Cattle farming, rice farming, (increased waste production).
  • What is global warming?
    An increase in the overall global average temperatures.
  • What is climate change?
    The change in long term weather patterns across the planet.
  • Name some consequences of climate change.
    Ice caps melting, sea levels rising, floods, changes in the rainfall, extreme weather e.g. storms, changes to habitats.
  • What is a carbon footprint?
    The amount of CO2 or other greenhouse gases that a product, service or event release into the atmosphere over their lifetime.
  • Name some ways we can reduce carbon footprints.
    Renewable or nuclear energy, more efficient technology, less waste, taxes, carbon capture and storage.
  • Why isn't it easy to reduce carbon footprint?
    Costly, reduce economic growth, lack of commitment from other countries.
  • What are the products of complete combustion?
    Carbon dioxide and water.
  • Name two possible products of incomplete combustion and issues associated with them.
    Carbon monoxide - toxic gas (reduces oxygen in blood).
    Carbon particulates (soot) - respiratory problems and glabal dimming.
  • What are the issues associated with sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides released during combustion?
    Respiratory problems and acid rain.