GCSE Chemistry: chemistry of the atmosphere

Flashcards covering key concepts from GCSE Chemistry: Atomic Structure and the Periodic Table.

Current composition of the Earth's atmosphere

Approximately 78% nitrogen, 21% oxygen, 1% other gases.

Early atmosphere composition

Mostly carbon dioxide with little or no oxygen, also contained water vapour, nitrogen, methane, and ammonia.

Formation of oceans

Water vapour in the atmosphere condensed as the Earth cooled, forming oceans.

Decrease of carbon dioxide levels

Carbon dioxide was dissolved in oceans, formed sedimentary rocks and fossil fuels, and used in photosynthesis.

Increase of oxygen levels

Oxygen levels increased due to photosynthesis by algae and plants.

Greenhouse gases

Gases that trap heat in the atmosphere, including carbon dioxide, methane, and water vapour.

Greenhouse effect

Greenhouse gases absorb outgoing infrared radiation and re-radiate it back to the Earth's surface.

Importance of the greenhouse effect

It keeps Earth warm enough to support life.

Human activities increasing greenhouse gases

Burning fossil fuels, deforestation, agriculture.

Global climate change

A long-term change in Earth's average temperature and weather patterns.

Potential effects of climate change

Rising sea levels, extreme weather, changes in rainfall patterns, impacts on biodiversity.

Evidence for climate change

Rising global temperatures, shrinking ice sheets, rising sea levels, changes in species distribution.

Challenges in understanding climate change

Complexity of climate systems and incomplete understanding of contributing factors.

Carbon footprint

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

Ways to reduce carbon footprints

Using renewable energy, improving energy efficiency, carbon capture, and storage.

Problems with reducing carbon emissions

Cost, required lifestyle changes, need for international cooperation, and economic concerns.

Products of burning fossil fuels

Carbon dioxide, water, carbon monoxide, sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxides, and particulates.

Production of carbon monoxide

Produced from incomplete combustion of fuels; it is toxic and prevents oxygen transport in the blood.

Causes of sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides

Sulfur impurities in fuels and high temperatures in engines.

Effects of sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides

Cause acid rain and respiratory problems.

Particulates

Tiny solid particles from burning fuels; they cause global dimming and health problems.