Year 10 Science - Unit 5: Carbon Fuels, Air Pollution and Climate Change

Vocabulary flashcards covering carbon fuels, types of combustion, air pollution, and climate change for Year 10 Science Unit 5.

Combustion

A chemical reaction in which a fuel reacts with oxygen to release energy and produce combustion products.

Complete Combustion

A combustion reaction occurring with a plentiful oxygen supply that produces carbon dioxide and water.

Incomplete Combustion

A combustion reaction occurring with a limited oxygen supply that produces toxic carbon monoxide, soot (carbon particles), and water.

Fossil Fuels

Energy sources such as coal, oil, and natural gas formed from ancient organic matter whose extraction and burning generate air pollution and greenhouse gases.

Hydrocarbon

A chemical compound made of hydrogen and carbon that serves as the principal component of fossil fuels.

Greenhouse Effect

The natural process by which atmospheric gases trap heat to maintain habitable temperatures on Earth.

Enhanced Greenhouse Effect

The intensification of Earth's natural heat-trapping capacity caused by increased concentrations of greenhouse gases from human activities.

Global Warming

The overall rise in Earth's average global temperatures primarily driven by the enhanced greenhouse effect.

Climate Change

Long-term shifts in global or regional climate patterns and weather systems resulting from global warming.

Greenhouse Gases

Gases in the atmosphere—including carbon dioxide, water vapour, and methane—that absorb and emit thermal radiation.

Carbon Monoxide

A toxic, colourless, and odourless gas formed as a product of incomplete combustion when the oxygen supply is limited.

Soot

Fine unburnt carbon particles produced by incomplete combustion that contribute to air pollution.

Investigation (NCEA Science)

A scientific inquiry type involving planning and carrying out a fair test to collect primary data.

Report / Research (NCEA Science)

A scientific inquiry type involving gathering, evaluating, and reporting on information and evidence from secondary sources.

Climate Change Mitigation

Actions and strategies designed to reduce or prevent the emission of greenhouse gases.

Climate Change Adaptation

Strategies and practical adjustments made to prepare for and cope with the impacts of climate change.