Chemistry of Atmosphere and Water Quiz

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What is the key feature of the atmosphere that leads to its division into distinct layers?

Interaction with land and ocean masses

Absorption of infrared radiation

Continuous flux of solar radiation

Composition, temperature, and pressure variations with altitude (correct)

How do greenhouse gases contribute to the greenhouse effect?

They reflect solar radiation back into space

They increase the levels of nitrogen and oxygen in the atmosphere

They absorb and emit infrared radiation, leading to warmer temperatures at the Earth's surface (correct)

They decrease the atmospheric pressure

What is the origin of the term 'atmosphere'?

From Arabic words for gaseous envelope

From Greek words meaning vapor/steam and ball/globe (correct)

From Latin words for air and sphere

From Sanskrit words for atmospheric layer

What has enabled life to evolve on Earth according to the text?

The natural greenhouse effect caused by greenhouse gases Signup and view all the answers

Which gases make up the majority of Earth's atmosphere at sea level?

Nitrogen and oxygen Signup and view all the answers

What happens to the infrared radiation absorbed by greenhouse gases?

It is emitted back towards Earth, warming the surface Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary cause of global warming according to the text?

Increase in greenhouse gases above natural levels Signup and view all the answers

Why do N2 and O2 not contribute to the greenhouse effect?

They have no net change in the distribution of their electrical charges when they vibrate Signup and view all the answers

What is the impact of molecules containing two atoms of different elements on the greenhouse effect?

They are short-lived in the atmosphere due to reactivity and solubility Signup and view all the answers

Which statement best describes the change in global temperature from 1850 to 2010?

The world is getting warmer at a rate of roughly 0.15-0.20°C per decade Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of the chemical composition of the atmosphere in relation to global temperature?

It significantly influences the amount of energy radiated by the Earth Signup and view all the answers

What is mentioned as a key factor affecting local temperatures?

Predictable cyclical events like night and day Signup and view all the answers

How does the increase in concentration of greenhouse gases affect temperatures on Earth?

Causes it to be far too hot by day and far too cold by night for life as we know it to survive Signup and view all the answers

Why do mono atomic molecules like argon (Ar) not significantly contribute to the greenhouse effect?

They have no net change in the distribution of their electrical charges when they vibrate Signup and view all the answers

Which activity is mentioned as a cause for an increase in greenhouse gases in our atmosphere?

Burning fossil fuels (coal, oil, and natural gas) Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of the lithosphere?

To contain rocks and minerals Signup and view all the answers

Which process contributes to the formation of soil?

Weathering Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary constituent of soil?

Organic remains Signup and view all the answers

Which type of weathering involves the mechanical disruption of rocks?

Granular disintegration Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of silicate minerals in the geosphere?

They form a major part of the earth's interior Signup and view all the answers

In what way does soil differ from rocks and minerals?

Soil is a mixture of organic remains, clay, and rock particles Signup and view all the answers