C6.3 Interpreting and interacting with Earth Systems

• What is the focus of section C6.3 in the study material?

  Interpreting and interacting with Earth Systems
• What are the learning outcomes related to the atmosphere?

  Understanding the current state, historical changes, and past conditions of the atmosphere
• What is one question regarding the atmosphere's past?

  What was the atmosphere like in the past?
• Why has the atmosphere changed over time?

  Due to various natural and anthropogenic factors
• What is one of the components of the atmosphere mentioned in the study material?

  Oxygen
• What role does methane play in the atmosphere?

  Methane reacts with other gases and contributes to atmospheric changes
• What is the balanced equation for methane's reaction in the atmosphere?

  CH₄ + 2O₂ → CO₂ + 2H₂O
• What are pollutants as defined in section C6.3.2?

  Substances that cause harm to the atmosphere
• Why is carbon monoxide considered a problem?

  It is a toxic gas that can attach to hemoglobin in the blood
• What are two problems caused by carbon monoxide?

  Breathing difficulties and potential death
• What is the greenhouse effect?

  It is the process by which greenhouse gases trap heat in the atmosphere
• What is the enhanced greenhouse effect?

  It refers to the increased warming of the Earth due to additional greenhouse gases from human activities
• What are the consequences of climate change mentioned in the study material?

  Melting ice caps, rising sea levels, and altered weather patterns
• What is one method of treating drinking water mentioned in the study material?

  Fluoridation
• What is the purpose of fluoridation in drinking water?

  To help protect against tooth decay
• What are the arguments for and against fluoridation of water supplies?

  For: Protects against tooth decay; Against: May remove individual choice and can damage teeth at high levels
• Where does drinking water typically come from?

  Rivers, lakes, and aquifers
• How is salt water treated for drinking purposes?

  Through a process called desalination
• Why is desalination not always worthwhile in the UK?

  Because the cost of energy and resources may outweigh the benefits
• What is the role of chlorine in drinking water treatment?

  It kills bacteria in the water
• What are the advantages and disadvantages of distilling large volumes of seawater for drinking water?

  Advantages: Provides a reliable water source; Disadvantages: High energy consumption and cost
• What are the stages in treating fresh water to make it safe to drink?

  1. Coagulation
  2. Sedimentation
  3. Filtration
  4. Disinfection
• What are the main pollutants and the problems they cause?

  • Carbon monoxide: Causes poisoning and breathing issues
  • Particulates: Can lead to respiratory problems
  • Methane: Contributes to greenhouse gas emissions