Carbon Dioxide and Methane's Impact on Earth's Energy Balance

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Questions and Answers

Why does an increase in carbon dioxide and methane in the atmosphere lead to a higher temperature on Earth?

  • They enhance the ozone layer, leading to a greenhouse effect.
  • They block incoming solar radiation, causing a build-up of heat on Earth's surface.
  • They absorb energy from the Sun and trap it inside the atmosphere.
  • They absorb outgoing infrared energy emitted by Earth's surface and redirect it back towards the surface. (correct)

Why are greenhouse gases crucial for sustaining life on Earth?

  • They prevent harmful UV radiation from reaching the Earth's surface.
  • They absorb and redirect energy, balancing the energy flow in and out of the Earth system. (correct)
  • They trap heat in the atmosphere, maintaining stable global temperatures.
  • They regulate the planet's temperature, preventing extreme heat or cold.

How does methane differ from carbon dioxide in its efficiency as a greenhouse gas?

  • Methane persists in the atmosphere for a longer period than carbon dioxide.
  • Methane absorbs more solar radiation than carbon dioxide.
  • Methane is more effective at absorbing and redirecting energy than carbon dioxide. (correct)
  • Methane is less efficient at trapping heat in the atmosphere compared to carbon dioxide.

What is the primary effect of sulfur dioxide in the atmosphere?

<p>Forming sulfuric acid that reflects incoming visible light (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does ozone primarily affect energy in the stratosphere?

<p>By absorbing ultraviolet light energy (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the short-term effect of adding sulfur dioxide to the atmosphere?

<p>Causing cooling by reflecting incoming visible light (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a major source of carbon dioxide released into the atmosphere by human activity?

<p>Combustion of fossil fuels (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which human activity contributes significantly to methane emissions in the atmosphere?

<p>Landfills (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is methane released by the keeping of livestock considered a significant contributor to greenhouse gases?

<p>Because of the animals' digestion process (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does deforestation contribute to the increase of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere?

<p>By releasing stored carbon when trees are cut down (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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