Greenhouse Gases and Carbon Footprints Overview (CHEM)

What are the main components of the Earth's atmosphere by percentage?

Oxygen = 21%, Nitrogen = 78%, CO₂ = 0.04%, and other gases = 1%.

What is the role of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere?

absorb infrared radiation, preventing some energy from escaping into space and helping to heat the Earth.

What is a carbon footprint?

The total amount of CO₂ and other greenhouse gases emitted over the entire life cycle of a product, service, or event.

Why do we measure carbon footprints?

To assess the environmental impact of products and identify the most polluting activities to reduce emissions.

What are some challenges in accurately measuring a carbon footprint?

raw material extraction, emissions during manufacturing, power consumption during use, disposal methods, and transportation emissions.

What are some strategies manufacturers can use to reduce carbon footprints?

Use renewable energy sources, reduce energy consumption in extraction and manufacturing, and produce less waste.

How can governments help reduce greenhouse gas emissions?

By introducing laws and taxing companies based on their greenhouse gas production.

What is the result of the gas test for hydrogen?

A lighted splint makes a popping sound

What happens when a glowing splint is put into oxygen?

The glowing splint re-lights

What is the result of bubbling carbon dioxide through limewater?

The limewater turns cloudy due to the formation of calcium carbonate.

What happens to damp blue litmus paper when exposed to chlorine?

The litmus paper turns pink (bleached) in the presence of chlorine.

What is the equation for photosynthesis?

Carbon dioxide + water ( with sunlight + chlorophyll )→ glucose + oxygen.

What is the equation for respiration?

Glucose + oxygen → carbon dioxide + water (with energy)

What experiment led to a new model of the atom?

Firing particles at gold atoms, which resulted in some particles being scattered.

Which type of particle was fired at the gold atoms in the atomic model experiment?

Alpha particles.

Who first suggested that electrons orbit the nucleus at specific distances?

Niels Bohr.

What is carbon capture and storage?

A method of storing CO₂ in rocks or oil wells as a short-term solution to reduce atmospheric CO₂.

What is one environmental consequence of waste breakdown?

Waste often releases methane, a potent greenhouse gas (not with metals)

What are some renewable energy sources that can help reduce carbon footprints?

Wind, solar, and nuclear energy.

What is a potential economic impact of transitioning to greener initiatives?

The transition may be expensive and could adversely affect the economy of a country.

What is the significance of international agreement on environmental initiatives?

It is crucial for global commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions.