Photo AI
The increase in carbon dioxide concentration in the Earth’s atmosphere is currently causing concern - Junior Cycle Science - Question c - 2007
Question c
The increase in carbon dioxide concentration in the Earth’s atmosphere is currently causing concern. The use of fossil fuels and deforestation have been identified a... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:The increase in carbon dioxide concentration in the Earth’s atmosphere is currently causing concern - Junior Cycle Science - Question c - 2007
Step 1
Explain how either the use of fossil fuels or deforestation could have contributed to the increase in atmospheric carbon dioxide.
Answer
The use of fossil fuels contributes to the increase in atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO₂) because burning these fuels releases CO₂ as a byproduct. This process occurs in various activities, such as energy generation, transportation, and industrial operations. As more fossil fuels are burned, CO₂ concentrations in the atmosphere rise. Alternatively, deforestation leads to increased atmospheric CO₂ as well; trees naturally absorb CO₂ during photosynthesis. When forests are cleared for agriculture or urban development, this carbon storage capacity is lost, releasing stored CO₂ back into the atmosphere, thereby contributing to climate change.
Step 2
Suggest one possible effect of continued increase in carbon dioxide concentration in the Earth’s atmosphere.
Answer
One possible effect of the continued increase in carbon dioxide concentration in the Earth's atmosphere is the acidification of oceans. Increased levels of CO₂ lead to higher concentrations of carbonic acid when dissolved in seawater, which can negatively impact marine life, particularly organisms like coral reefs and shellfish that rely on calcium carbonate to build their structures.
Step 3
Suggest one reason why the carbon dioxide concentration decreases between April and October each year.
Answer
One reason why the carbon dioxide concentration decreases between April and October each year is due to the increased levels of photosynthesis taking place during the growing season. During this period, plants and trees absorb more CO₂ from the atmosphere for their growth, leading to a natural reduction in atmospheric carbon dioxide levels.
Step 4
How could the reason that you have given in (iii) be used in a practical way to slow down and even reverse the overall increase in carbon dioxide levels in the atmosphere?
Answer
The reason given in (iii) can be practically applied by implementing large-scale tree planting and reforestation initiatives. By increasing the number of trees and plants, we enhance the capacity for photosynthesis, thereby absorbing more CO₂ from the atmosphere. Additionally, educating communities on sustainable land use, encouraging urban forestry, and protecting existing forests can contribute to this effort. Furthermore, using tree canopies to provide shade in urban areas can reduce energy consumption by lowering the need for air conditioning, indirectly contributing to lower fossil fuel use and further reducing CO₂ emissions.