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The greenhouse effect and the ozone layer are natural phenomena that are favourable to the existence of life on planet Earth - Leaving Cert Chemistry - Question Question 1 - 2017
Question Question 1
The greenhouse effect and the ozone layer are natural phenomena that are favourable to the existence of life on planet Earth. However, in recent years, there have b... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:The greenhouse effect and the ozone layer are natural phenomena that are favourable to the existence of life on planet Earth - Leaving Cert Chemistry - Question Question 1 - 2017
Step 1
How does the greenhouse effect help make conditions favourable for life on Earth?
Answer
The greenhouse effect plays a crucial role in maintaining the temperature of the Earth suitable for life. It helps to trap heat from the sun, particularly in the form of infrared radiation. This trapped heat is essential as it keeps our planet warm enough to sustain life. Without this phenomenon, the Earth would be too cold, making it inhospitable.
This process occurs as the sun's energy enters the Earth's atmosphere and warms the surface. The heat is then radiated back towards space. Greenhouse gases absorb and re-radiate some of this energy, preventing it from escaping entirely. This natural insulation is vital for keeping the climate stable and supporting ecosystems.
Step 2
How does the ozone layer help make conditions favourable for life on Earth?
Answer
The ozone layer acts as a protective shield in the Earth's stratosphere, absorbing the majority of the sun's harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation. This protection is critical for preventing damage to living organisms, including plants, animals, and humans.
Without the ozone layer, increased levels of UV radiation would lead to higher rates of skin cancer, cataracts in humans, and detrimental effects on various ecosystems. By blocking these harmful rays, the ozone layer aids in maintaining the ecological balance necessary for life.
Step 3
Give one way that human activities have caused an increase in the greenhouse effect in recent years.
Answer
One significant way that human activities have caused an increase in the greenhouse effect is through deforestation. The clearing of forests for agriculture and urban development reduces the number of trees available to absorb carbon dioxide, a major greenhouse gas. As a result, more carbon dioxide remains in the atmosphere, enhancing the greenhouse effect and contributing to global warming.
Step 4
What possible outcome of an increased greenhouse effect is causing concern at the present time?
Answer
A major concern linked to the increased greenhouse effect is global warming, which leads to the melting of polar ice caps and rising sea levels. This phenomenon poses serious threats, such as flooding of coastal regions, changes in weather patterns, and loss of habitats for various species. Additionally, it can exacerbate climate change, leading to extreme weather events and adverse impacts on agriculture and food security.
Step 5
How have humans changed their behaviour in recent years to reduce the rate of ozone depletion?
Answer
In recent years, efforts have been made to reduce the use of chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and other ozone-depleting substances. This has been aided by international agreements like the Montreal Protocol, which promotes the phasing out of CFCs in various applications such as aerosol sprays, refrigeration, and air conditioning. These actions are crucial in supporting the recovery of the ozone layer and minimizing its depletion.