biofuels

Temperature Increase

Leads to changes in agriculture and biodistribution due to desertification and loss of cold-water habitats.

Greenhouse Gases

Allow shortwave solar radiation to pass but absorb longer wave infrared radiation from Earth's surface.

CO2

Carbon dioxide is IR active, meaning it can absorb infrared radiation due to its molecular structure.

Photosynthesis

The process that converts light energy into chemical energy through a series of redox reactions.

Ethanol

A biofuel made from biomass by fermenting plants high in starches and sugars.

Fermentation Process

Occurs at approximately 37 degrees Celsius in the absence of oxygen, using yeast as a catalyst.

Gasohol

A mixture of 10% ethanol and 90% unleaded gasoline.

Advantages of Gasohol

Renewable energy source, produces lower emissions of carbon monoxide and nitrogen oxides, reduces dependence on oil.

Disadvantages of Gasohol

Competes for land with food production, high harvesting and transportation costs, depletes soil nutrients, lower specific energy than fossil fuels, and ethanol's tendency to absorb water.