Carbon Cycle and Human Impact

These flashcards cover key concepts from the lecture on the carbon cycle, human activities affecting it, and the implications for climate change.

What is combustion in the context of the carbon cycle?

Combustion is the burning of fossil fuels, which releases carbon dioxide (CO₂) into the atmosphere and turns fossil fuels from a carbon sink into a carbon source.

What is deforestation and how does it affect the carbon cycle?

Deforestation is the excessive cutting of forest trees, which removes a carbon sink (trees) and turns it into a carbon source by releasing more CO₂ into the atmosphere.

What is the greenhouse effect?

The greenhouse effect is the trapping of heat in the atmosphere by CO₂ and other gases, which keeps the Earth warm.

What major change occurred around 1750 that impacted the carbon cycle?

The Industrial Revolution began around 1750, introducing fossil fuel use (coal, oil, natural gas) that significantly increased CO₂ emissions.

What was the CO₂ concentration in the atmosphere before the Industrial Revolution?

The pre-industrial CO₂ concentration was about 278 parts per million (ppm).

What is the current CO₂ concentration compared to pre-industrial levels?

The current CO₂ concentration is approximately 417 ppm, which is about 50% above pre-industrial levels.