2. Global Warming and Greenhouse Effect
Answer the following questions:
1. How does the presence of greenhouse gases cause global warming?
2. Ozone is an important gas in the upper troposphere. Describe.
3. How does global warming cause an increase in the spread of diseases?
4. Which are the main greenhouse gases? What are their sources?
5. Suggest two measures to control global warming.
Answer (2)
Greenhouse gases contribute to global warming by trapping heat in Earth's atmosphere. Ozone protects from UV radiation but can be harmful at lower altitudes. Controlling global warming involves reducing emissions and improving energy efficiency.
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How does the presence of greenhouse gases cause global warming?
Greenhouse gases, such as carbon dioxide ( CO 2 ) , methane ( CH 4 ) , and water vapor, trap heat in the Earth's atmosphere. This process is known as the greenhouse effect. These gases allow sunlight to enter the atmosphere and reach the Earth’s surface. When the Earth's surface absorbs the sunlight, it transforms it to heat and then radiates it back into the atmosphere in the form of infrared energy. The greenhouse gases absorb this infrared energy and re-radiate it in all directions, including back towards the Earth’s surface. This trapped heat leads to an increase in the Earth’s average surface temperature, which is known as global warming.
Ozone is an important gas in the upper troposphere. Describe.
Ozone ( O 3 ) in the upper troposphere plays a critical role in absorbing harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun, preventing it from reaching the Earth's surface. This protective layer is crucial for life on Earth because excessive UV radiation can lead to increased risks of skin cancer and cataracts in humans, as well as harming ecosystems and wildlife.
How does global warming cause an increase in the spread of diseases?
Global warming can lead to an increase in the spread of diseases by altering environmental conditions, creating more favorable circumstances for disease vectors such as mosquitoes and ticks. Warmer temperatures can expand the geographical range and seasonality of these vectors, allowing diseases like malaria, dengue fever, and Lyme disease to spread to regions previously unaffected.
Which are the main greenhouse gases? What are their sources?
The main greenhouse gases include:
Carbon Dioxide ( CO 2 ) : Emitted through the burning of fossil fuels (oil, coal, natural gas), deforestation, and various industrial processes.
Methane ( CH 4 ) : Produced during the production and transport of coal, oil, and natural gas as well as from livestock and other agricultural practices.
Nitrous Oxide ( N 2 O ) : Released from agricultural and industrial activities, as well as during combustion of fossil fuels and solid waste.
Fluorinated Gases: Synthetic gases used in industrial applications like refrigeration and air conditioning.
Suggest two measures to control global warming.
Reducing Fossil Fuel Use: By decreasing the reliance on coal, oil, and natural gas, and increasing the use of renewable energy sources like wind, solar, and hydroelectric power, we can significantly reduce CO 2 emissions.
Enhancing Energy Efficiency: Implementing energy-efficient technologies and practices in homes, industries, and transportation can reduce greenhouse gas emissions by lowering energy consumption.
