Chemistry of the Atmosphere - P2T9

Acid rain

Rain that is acidic due to dissolved gases, such as sulfur dioxide, produced from the burning of fossil fuels.

Carbon footprint

The total amount of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases emitted over the full life cycle of a product.

Environmental implication

The effect that the activity has on the environment.

Fossil fuels

Natural fuels such as coal and gas, formed in the past from the remains of living organisms.

Global climate change

A long-term shift in global climate patterns.

Global dimming

A gradual reduction in the amount of light reaching the Earth’s surface. This can be caused by carbon particulates.

Greenhouse effect

The increase in the temperature of the Earth’s atmosphere due to the greenhouse gases in the atmosphere trapping infra-red radiation from the surface.

Greenhouse gases

Greenhouse gases include water vapour, carbon dioxide, and methane. Greenhouse gases in the atmosphere maintain temperatures on Earth high enough to support life.

Particulates

Particulates cause global dimming and health problems for humans. Carbon particulates (soot) are a product of incomplete combustion.

Photosynthesis

Oxygen was produced in the early atmosphere by photosynthesis of plants and algae. This simultaneously decreased the amount of carbon dioxide in the early atmosphere. Equation for photosynthesis: 6CO2 + 6H2O → C6H12O6 + 6O2.

Pollutants

A substance introduced into the environment that has undesired effects.