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Outline three ways in which human activity can affect the balance of carbon in the atmosphere. - Leaving Cert Home Economics - Question a. - 2015
Question a.
Outline three ways in which human activity can affect the balance of carbon in the atmosphere.
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Outline three ways in which human activity can affect the balance of carbon in the atmosphere. - Leaving Cert Home Economics - Question a. - 2015
Step 1
Deforestation
Answer
Deforestation reduces the number of trees that can absorb carbon dioxide (CO₂) from the atmosphere. When trees are cut down or burned, not only is the ability of forests to sequester carbon diminished, but the carbon stored in trees is released back into the atmosphere, contributing to increased atmospheric CO₂ levels.
Step 2
Fossil Fuel Emissions
Answer
The burning of fossil fuels for energy (such as coal, oil, and natural gas) releases significant amounts of CO₂ and other greenhouse gases. This process enhances the greenhouse effect, leading to an increase in global temperatures and further altering the carbon balance in the atmosphere.
Step 3
Agricultural Practices
Answer
Certain agricultural practices, such as the use of nitrogen-based fertilizers and large-scale livestock farming, can increase methane (CH₄) and nitrous oxide (N₂O) emissions. These gases, while less abundant than CO₂, have a much greater warming potential, thereby disrupting the balance of carbon and other greenhouse gases in the atmosphere.