Main Natural Sources of Greenhouse Gases

Size: px
Start display at page:

Download "Main Natural Sources of Greenhouse Gases"

Transcription

1 Main Natural Sources of Greenhouse Gases

2 Content Atmospheric Composition Composition of the Earth s Atmosphere Greenhouse Gases The Radiative Forcing bar chart: AR5 version Natural Greenhouse Gases Water Vapor and Clouds Carbon dioxide (CO 2 ) Methane (CH 4 ) Nitrous oxide (N 2 O) Tropospheric Ozone (O 3 ) Halogen Containing Gases

3 Atmospheric Composition The main constituents of the dry atmosphere are nitrogen (78.084% by volume), oxygen (20.946% by volume) and argon (0.934% by volume), but much lower concentrations other noble gases can also be found. Concentrations of these gases do not vary substantially in time and space (in the lower 80 km layer of the atmosphere) and therefore they are called permanent gases.

4 Composition of the Earth s Atmosphere

5 Greenhouse Gases A greenhouse gas (sometimes abbreviated GHG) is a gas in an atmosphere that absorbs and emits radiation within the thermal infrared range. This process is the fundamental cause of the greenhouse effect. The primary greenhouse gases in the Earth's atmosphere are water vapor, carbon dioxide, methane, nitrous oxide, and ozone.

6 Greenhouse Gases When ranked by their direct contribution to the greenhouse effect, the most important are: Compound Formula Contribution (%) Water vapor and clouds H 2 O 36 72% Carbon dioxide CO % Methane CH 4 4 9% Ozone O 3 3 7%

7 Greenhouse Gases The global warming potential (GWP) depends on both the efficiency of the molecule as a greenhouse gas and its atmospheric lifetime. GWP is measured relative to the same mass of CO 2 and evaluated for a specific timescale. Thus, if a gas has a high (positive) radiative forcing but also a short lifetime, it will have a large GWP on a 20 year scale but a small one on a 100 year scale. Conversely, if a molecule has a longer atmospheric lifetime than CO 2 its GWP will increase with the timescale considered. Carbon dioxide is defined to have a GWP of 1 over all time periods.

8

9 The Radiative Forcing bar chart: AR5 version Climate Change 2013: IPCC AR5 WG1 SPM, Fig. SPM 05

10 Natural Greenhouse Gases The Natural Greenhouse Gases are: Water Vapor and Clouds Carbon dioxide (CO 2 ) Methane (CH 4 ) Nitrous oxide (N 2 O) Tropospheric Ozone (O 3 ) Halogen Containing Gases

11 Water Vapor and Clouds The most important and most abundant atmospheric greenhouse gas is water vapor. Human sources have only a small direct influence on tropospheric water vapor concentrations, because they are largely controlled by local temperatures. The water vapor concentration can be several percent over warm tropical seas and very low over frigid ice fields at the poles. As planetary warming occurs, water vapor concentration increases and adds to the warming effect.

12 Natural Sources of Carbon Dioxide (CO 2 ) The natural sources of carbon dioxide (CO 2 ) are: decomposition, ocean release, respiration and volcanoes percent of all naturally produced CO 2 emissions come from ocean atmosphere exchange. Other important natural CO 2 sources include plant and animal respiration (28.56%) as well as soil respiration and decomposition (28.56%). A minor amount is also created by volcanic eruptions (0.03%). gas sources

13 Natural Sources of Carbon Dioxide (CO 2 ) Ocean atmosphere exchange The largest natural source of carbon dioxide emissions is from oceanatmosphere exchange. This produces 42.84% of natural carbon dioxide emissions. The oceans contain dissolved carbon dioxide, which is released into the air at the sea surface. Annually this process creates about 330 billion tons of carbon dioxide emissions. Many molecules move between the ocean and the atmosphere through the process of diffusion, carbon dioxide is one of them. This movement is in both directions, so the oceans release carbon dioxide but they also absorb it. The effects of this movement can be seen quite easily, when water is left to sit in a glass for long enough, gases will be released and create air bubbles. Carbon dioxide is amongst the gases that are in the air bubbles. gas sources

14 Natural Sources of Carbon Dioxide (CO 2 ) Plant and animal respiration An important natural source of carbon dioxide is plant and animal respiration, which accounts for 28.56% of natural emissions. Carbon dioxide is a byproduct of the chemical reaction that plants and animals use to produce the energy they need. Annually this process creates about 220 billion tons of carbon dioxide emissions. Plants and animals use respiration to produce energy, which is used to fuel basic activities like movement and growth. The process uses oxygen to break down nutrients like sugars, proteins and fats. This releases energy that can be used by the organism but also creates water and carbon dioxide as byproducts. gas sources

15 Natural Sources of Carbon Dioxide (CO 2 ) Soil respiration and decomposition Another important natural source of carbon dioxide is soil respiration and decomposition, which accounts for 28.56% of natural emissions. Many organisms that live in the Earth's soil use respiration to produce energy. Amongst them are decomposers who break down dead organic material. Both of these processes releases carbon dioxide as a byproduct. Annually these soil organisms create about 220 billion tons of carbon dioxide emissions. Any respiration that occurs below ground is considered soil respiration. Plant roots, bacteria, fungi and soil animals use respiration to create the energy they need to survive but this also produces carbon dioxide. Decomposers that work underground breaking down organic matter (like dead trees, leaves and animals) are also included in this. Carbon dioxide is regularly released during decomposition. gas sources

16 Natural Sources of Carbon Dioxide (CO 2 ) Volcanic eruptions A minor amount carbon dioxide is created by volcanic eruptions, which accounts for 0.03% of natural emissions. Volcanic eruptions release magma, ash, dust and gases from deep below the Earth's surface. One of the gases released is carbon dioxide. Annually this process creates about 0.15 to 0.26 billion tons of carbon dioxide emissions. The most common volcanic gases are water vapor, carbon dioxide, and sulfur dioxide. Volcanic activity will cause magma to absorb these gases, while passing through the Earth's mantle and crust. During eruptions, the gases are then released into the atmosphere. gas sources

17 Natural Sources of Methane (CH 4 ) The main natural sources include wetlands, termites and the oceans. 78% of natural CH 4 emissions are produced by wetlands. Other natural CH 4 sources include termites (12%) and the oceans (10%). gas sources

18 Natural Sources of Methane (CH 4 ) Wetlands. Wetlands are the largest natural source of methane. This produces 78% of natural methane emissions. The waterlogged conditions of wetlands are perfect for microbes who require environments with no oxygen and abundant organic matter. While part of wetland related emissions is absorbed by methane consuming microbes, a large percentage escapes into the atmosphere. Wetlands create 147 million tons of methane each year. gas sources

19 Natural Sources of Methane (CH 4 ) Termites. Termites are a significant natural source of methane. During the normal digestion process of a termite, methane is produced. Termites eat cellulose but rely on micro organisms in their gut to digest it which produces methane during the process. This is responsible for 12% of natural methane emissions. Each termite produces very small amounts of methane on a daily basis. However, when this is multiplied by the world population of termites, their emissions add up to 23 million tons of methane annually. gas sources

20 Natural Sources of Methane (CH 4 ) Oceans. Another significant natural source of methane comes from the oceans. Methane producing microbes living in the ocean create these emissions. This creates 10% of natural methane emissions. Globally, oceans create 19 million tons of methane annually. The majority of oceanic methane emissions gets produced in deeper sediment layers of productive coastal areas. This accounts for 75% of the oceans methane emissions. The methane created by these microbes mixes with the surrounding water and is emitted to the atmosphere from the ocean surface. gas sources

21 Natural Sources of Nitrous Oxide (N 2 O) The main natural sources are soils under natural vegetation and the oceans. 60% of natural N 2 O emissions are produced by soils under natural vegetation. Other natural sources include the oceans (35%) and atmospheric chemical reactions (5%) gas sources

22 Natural Sources of Nitrous Oxide (N 2 O) Soils under natural vegetation. The largest natural source of nitrous oxide is from soils under natural vegetation. This produces 60% of natural emissions. Uncultivated soils make up the majority of the Earth's land surface. So the nitrous oxide produced by microbes that break down nitrogen in these soils are considered natural sources. Riparian and tropical rainforest soils are important contributors to this source because they have higher nutrient availability and moisture levels. This facilitates microbial nitrification and denitrification. Soils under natural vegetation create 6.6 million tons of nitrous oxide each year. gas sources

23 Natural Sources of Nitrous Oxide (N 2 O) Oceans. An important natural source of nitrous oxide emissions comes from the oceans. Nitrous oxide producing microbes living in the ocean create these emissions. This produces 35% of natural emissions which equals 3.8 million tons of nitrous oxide annually. Much of the nitrous oxide in the oceans arises from microbial activity in and around sinking particles, such as fecal pellets. These particles provide the anaerobic conditions necessary for denitrification, a process which creates nitrous oxide as a by product. gas sources

24 Natural Sources of Nitrous Oxide (N 2 O) Atmospheric chemical reactions. Chemical reactions in the atmosphere produce a significant amount of nitrous oxide emissions. The atmosphere acts as a source for nitrous oxide through the oxidation of ammonia which is responsible for 5% of emissions. Ammonia is a natural occurring gas in the atmosphere. The oceans, manure from wild animals as well as aging and rotting plants form the most important natural sources of ammonia in the air. The oxidization of ammonia from natural sources creates 600,000 tons of nitrous oxide annually. gas sources

25 Natural Sources of Tropospheric Ozone (O 3 ) Gases, such as CO and CH 4, which are emitted by natural biological processes and human activities, can react in sunlight to form O 3 in the troposphere. Tropospheric O 3 only lasts for a few days or weeks in the atmosphere, so its distributions are variable.

26 Natural Sources of Halogen Containing Gases Almost all of the long lived halogen containing gases in the atmosphere are synthetic and did not exist in the atmosphere before the industrial era. Only a few such gases, for example, methyl bromide, methyl chloride, and tetrafluoromethane (CF 4 ), occur naturally.

27 Main Natural Sources of Greenhouse Gases

2.2 - Nutrient Cycles. Carbon Cycle

2.2 - Nutrient Cycles. Carbon Cycle 2.2 - Nutrient Cycles Carbon Cycle Nutrients What are nutrients? Chemicals (C,O, N, P, H...) needed for life There is a constant amount of these nutrients on Earth and they are stored in different places.

More information

Biosphere & Biogeochemical Cycles

Biosphere & Biogeochemical Cycles Biosphere & Biogeochemical Cycles Biosphere Sphere of living organisms All the regions of the earth and its atmosphere in which living organisms are found or can live. Interacts with all the other spheres

More information

Chapter 19 Global Change. Wednesday, April 18, 18

Chapter 19 Global Change. Wednesday, April 18, 18 Chapter 19 Global Change Module 62 Global Climate Change and the Greenhouse Effect After reading this module you should be able to distinguish among global change, global climate change, and global warming.

More information

5/6/2015. Matter is recycled within and between ecosystems.

5/6/2015. Matter is recycled within and between ecosystems. Biogeochemical Cycles/ Nutrient Cycles Biogeochemical Cycle Evaporation Water Cycle Transpiration Condensation Precipitation Runoff Vocabulary Seepage Root Uptake Carbon Cycle Phosphorus Cycle Nitrogen

More information

CALIFORNIA EDUCATION AND THE ENVIRONMENT INITIATIVE

CALIFORNIA EDUCATION AND THE ENVIRONMENT INITIATIVE Water Vapor: A GHG Lesson 3 page 1 of 2 Water Vapor: A GHG Water vapor in our atmosphere is an important greenhouse gas (GHG). On a cloudy day we can see evidence of the amount of water vapor in our atmosphere.

More information

Climate: Earth s Dynamic Equilibrium

Climate: Earth s Dynamic Equilibrium Climate: Earth s Dynamic Equilibrium review session CCIU April 30, 2016 High-school standard HS-ESS2-4 focuses on the role energy flows play in Earth s climate HS-ESS2-4 Use a model to describe how variations

More information

Chapter 13 The Earths Atmosphere

Chapter 13 The Earths Atmosphere Chapter 3 The Earths Atmosphere Name: Class: Date: Time: 79 minutes Marks: 79 marks Comments: Page of 28 The bar chart shows some of the gases in the atmospheres of Earth today and Mars today. (b) Complete

More information

Energy and the Earth. Key words: Incoming Solar Radiation, Electromagnetic wave, Greenhouse effect, conduction, convection, radiation.

Energy and the Earth. Key words: Incoming Solar Radiation, Electromagnetic wave, Greenhouse effect, conduction, convection, radiation. S c i e n c e Energy and the Earth Key words: Incoming Solar Radiation, Electromagnetic wave, Greenhouse effect, conduction, convection, radiation. Energy transfer Heat is energy in transit from warmer

More information

Chemistry in the Environment

Chemistry in the Environment Chemistry in the Environment Section 261 Earth s Atmosphere In your textbook, read about the terms used to describe the physical and chemical properties of Earth s atmosphere Complete each statement 1

More information

Earth Systems and Interactions

Earth Systems and Interactions CHAPTER The Earth System Earth Systems and Interactions What do you think? Read the three statements below and decide whether you agree or disagree with them. Place an A in the Before column if you agree

More information

How Ecosystems Work Section 2

How Ecosystems Work Section 2 Objectives List the three stages of the carbon cycle. Describe where fossil fuels are located. Identify one way that humans are affecting the carbon cycle. List the tree stages of the nitrogen cycle. Describe

More information

Nutrient Cycles. Nutrient cycles involve flow of high quality energy from the sun through the environment & of elements.

Nutrient Cycles. Nutrient cycles involve flow of high quality energy from the sun through the environment & of elements. Nutrient Cycles Nutrient cycles (= biogeochemical cycles): natural processes that involve the flow of nutrients from the environment (air, water, soil, rock) to living organisms ( ) & back again. Nutrient

More information

ENVIS- IITM NEWSLETTER The Air Quality: A Global Challenge

ENVIS- IITM NEWSLETTER The Air Quality: A Global Challenge ENVIS- IITM NEWSLETTER The Air Quality: A Global Challenge GLOBAL WARMING Editorial Prof. B.N. Goswami (Director, IITM, Pune) Dr. G. Beig (ENVIS Co-ordinetor) Ms. Neha S. Parkhi (Program Officer) Mr. Rajnikant

More information

Greenhouse Effect. The Greenhouse Effect

Greenhouse Effect. The Greenhouse Effect Greenhouse Effect The Greenhouse Effect Greenhouse gases let short-wavelength radiation come into the Earth s atmosphere from the sun. However, they absorb and re-radiate Earth s long-wavelength radiation

More information

Section 2: The Cycling of Materials

Section 2: The Cycling of Materials Section 2: The Cycling of Materials Preview Bellringer Objectives The Carbon Cycle How Humans Affect the Carbon Cycle The Nitrogen Cycle Decomposers and the Nitrogen Cycle The Phosphorus Cycle Section

More information

TODAY: TOPIC #6 WRAP UP!! Atmospheric Structure & Composition

TODAY: TOPIC #6 WRAP UP!! Atmospheric Structure & Composition TODAY: TOPIC #6 WRAP UP!! Atmospheric Structure & Composition There s one more thing to correct in our the depiction of incoming Solar....... the atmosphere is NOT totally TRANSPARENT to INCOMING Solar

More information

Chapter: The Nonliving Environment

Chapter: The Nonliving Environment Table of Contents Chapter: The Nonliving Environment Section 1: Abiotic Factors Section 2: Cycles in Nature Section 3: Energy Flow Abiotic Factors 1 Environmental Factors The features of the environment

More information

Unit 3: Matter & Energy Flow on Earth

Unit 3: Matter & Energy Flow on Earth Unit 3: Matter & Energy Flow on Earth Objectives: E2.3c - Explain how the nitrogen cycle is part of the Earth system. E2.3d - Explain how carbon moves through the Earth system and how it may benefit or

More information

Section 2: The Cycling of Matter

Section 2: The Cycling of Matter Section 2: The Cycling of Matter Preview Classroom Catalyst Objectives The Carbon Cycle How Humans Affect the Carbon Cycle The Nitrogen Cycle Decomposers and the Nitrogen Cycle The Phosphorus Cycle Section

More information

3.4 Cycles of Matter. Recycling in the Biosphere. Lesson Objectives. Lesson Summary

3.4 Cycles of Matter. Recycling in the Biosphere. Lesson Objectives. Lesson Summary 3.4 Cycles of Matter Lesson Objectives Describe how matter cycles among the living and nonliving parts of an ecosystem. Describe how water cycles through the biosphere. Explain why nutrients are important

More information

GENERATING ELECTRICITY & THE GREENHOUSE EFFECT

GENERATING ELECTRICITY & THE GREENHOUSE EFFECT GENERATING ELECTRICITY & THE GREENHOUSE EFFECT How is electricity generated? Make electricity using: solenoid (coil of wire) wire with alligator clips magnet galvanometer Draw and label a diagram showing

More information

Chapter 43 Ecosystems & Human Interferences

Chapter 43 Ecosystems & Human Interferences How do organisms obtain energy from their environment? Autotrophs produce their own food Heterotrophs feed on other organisms 1. Herbivores Consume plants 2. Carnivores Consume other animals 3. Omnivores

More information

Methane: The Other Greenhouse Gas

Methane: The Other Greenhouse Gas methane: the Other greenhouse gas Overview: Methane is capable of holding more than 20 times the heat of carbon dioxide but it is often overlooked as an important greenhouse gas because relatively small

More information

NITROGEN CYCLE. Big Question. Dr. B. K. Bindhani Assistant Professor KIIT School of Biotechnology KIIT University, Bhubaneswar, Orissa, Indi.

NITROGEN CYCLE. Big Question. Dr. B. K. Bindhani Assistant Professor KIIT School of Biotechnology KIIT University, Bhubaneswar, Orissa, Indi. ITROGE CYCLE Big Question Why Are Biogeochemical Cycles Essential to Long-Term Life on Earth? Dr. B. K. Bindhani Assistant Professor KIIT School of Biotechnology KIIT University, Bhubaneswar, Orissa, Indi.a

More information

Guiding Questions. What is acid rain, how is it formed, and what are some of its impacts?

Guiding Questions. What is acid rain, how is it formed, and what are some of its impacts? 2201. The atmosphere is a combination of gasses, primarily composed of nitrogen and oxygen with small amounts of other gases such as carbon dioxide, sulfur dioxide, nitrous oxides and many other trace

More information

Chapter 5. The Earth s Atmosphere

Chapter 5. The Earth s Atmosphere Chapter 5 The Earth s Atmosphere Layers of the Earth Earth largest of the inner planets Gravity strong enough to hold gases. Lots of spheres Equator divided the Earth into two hemispheres Lithosphere-

More information

Nutrient Cycles. & how Humans impact nutrient cycling. Accel Bio. Where do energy & nutrients come from?

Nutrient Cycles. & how Humans impact nutrient cycling. Accel Bio. Where do energy & nutrients come from? Nutrient Cycles & how Humans impact nutrient cycling Accel Bio Where do energy & nutrients come from? What are nutrients? What else do organisms need to survive and grow? Organisms need, Energy, water

More information

LIVING IN THE ENVIRONMENT, 18e G. TYLER MILLER SCOTT E. SPOOLMAN. Ecosystems: What Are They and How Do They Work?

LIVING IN THE ENVIRONMENT, 18e G. TYLER MILLER SCOTT E. SPOOLMAN. Ecosystems: What Are They and How Do They Work? LIVING IN THE ENVIRONMENT, 18e G. TYLER MILLER SCOTT E. SPOOLMAN 3 Ecosystems: What Are They and How Do They Work? Cengage Cengage Learning Learning 2015 2015 Core Case Study: Tropical Rain Forests Are

More information

How Ecosystems Work Section 2. Chapter 5 How Ecosystems Work Section 2: Cycling of Materials DAY 1

How Ecosystems Work Section 2. Chapter 5 How Ecosystems Work Section 2: Cycling of Materials DAY 1 Chapter 5 How Ecosystems Work Section 2: Cycling of Materials DAY 1 The Carbon Cycle The carbon cycle is the movement of carbon from the nonliving environment into living things and back Carbon is the

More information

The Atmospheric System 6.1

The Atmospheric System 6.1 The Atmospheric System 6.1 What is the atmosphere? Layer of gas that surrounds our planet. The atmosphere is a dynamic system with inputs, outputs, storages and flows. Heat and pollutants are carried

More information

The next 2 weeks. Reading: IPCC (2007), Chap 7 (sections 7.4 and 7.5)

The next 2 weeks. Reading: IPCC (2007), Chap 7 (sections 7.4 and 7.5) PCC 588 Jan 15 The next 2 weeks Th. Jan 15: non-co 2 greenhouse gases CH 4 and N 2 O Tu. Jan 20: non-co 2 greenhouse gases: ozone, halocarbons Th. Jan 22: Aerosols and Climate Tu. Jan 27: Paper discussion

More information

3 3 Cycles of Matter

3 3 Cycles of Matter 3 3 Cycles of Matter Recycling in the Biosphere Energy - one way flow matter - recycled within and between ecosystems. biogeochemical cycles matter Elements, chemical compounds, and other forms passed

More information

Chapter 19: Global Change

Chapter 19: Global Change 1 Summary Of the Case Study Polar Bear population in the Antarctic going down because temperatures are going up and melting the caps. Polar bears are losing their habitat, they also can t get their food

More information

Elements essential for life also cycle through ecosystems.

Elements essential for life also cycle through ecosystems. 13.5 Cycling of Matter KEY CONCEPT Matter cycles in and out of an ecosystem. MAIN IDEAS Water cycles through the environment. Elements essential for life also cycle through ecosystems. VOCABULARY hydrologic

More information

10/17/ Cycles of Matter. Recycling in the Biosphere. How does matter move among the living and nonliving parts of an ecosystem?

10/17/ Cycles of Matter. Recycling in the Biosphere. How does matter move among the living and nonliving parts of an ecosystem? 2 of 33 3-3 Cycles of Matter How does matter move among the living and nonliving parts of an ecosystem? 3 of 33 Recycling in the Biosphere Recycling in the Biosphere Energy and matter move through the

More information

Ecosystems. Trophic relationships determine the routes of energy flow and chemical cycling in ecosystems.

Ecosystems. Trophic relationships determine the routes of energy flow and chemical cycling in ecosystems. AP BIOLOGY ECOLOGY ACTIVITY #5 Ecosystems NAME DATE HOUR An ecosystem consists of all the organisms living in a community as well as all the abiotic factors with which they interact. The dynamics of an

More information

The Carbon Cycle. the atmosphere the landmass of Earth (including the interior) all of Earth s water all living organisms

The Carbon Cycle. the atmosphere the landmass of Earth (including the interior) all of Earth s water all living organisms The Carbon Cycle Carbon is an essential part of life on Earth. About half the dry weight of most living organisms is carbon. It plays an important role in the structure, biochemistry, and nutrition of

More information

The Biosphere and Biogeochemical Cycles

The Biosphere and Biogeochemical Cycles The Biosphere and Biogeochemical Cycles The Earth consists of 4 overlapping layers: Lithosphere Hydrosphere (and cryosphere) Atmosphere Biosphere The Biosphere The biosphere is the layer of life around

More information

complex systems many different variables many alternative theories 1

complex systems many different variables many alternative theories 1 M.(a) any one from: complex systems many different variables many alternative theories (b) carbon dioxide allows short wavelength radiation to pass through allow greenhouse gas(es) for carbon dioxide the

More information

13.5. Cycling of Matter. Water cycles through the environment.

13.5. Cycling of Matter. Water cycles through the environment. 13.5 Cycling of Matter VOCABULARY hydrologic cycle biogeochemical cycle nitrogen fixation KEY CONCEPT Matter cycles in and out of an ecosystem. Main Ideas Water cycles through the environment. Elements

More information

Lecture 11: Global Warming. Human Acticities. Natural Climate Changes. Global Warming: Natural or Man-Made CO 2 CH 4

Lecture 11: Global Warming. Human Acticities. Natural Climate Changes. Global Warming: Natural or Man-Made CO 2 CH 4 Lecture 11: Global Warming Human Acticities CO 2 CH 4 The initial appearance of human species: last 100,000 to 200,000 years Development of the first civilization: the last 10,000 years What is the sensitivity

More information

How Ecosystems Work Section 1. Chapter 5 How Ecosystems Work Section 1: Energy Flow in Ecosystems DAY 1

How Ecosystems Work Section 1. Chapter 5 How Ecosystems Work Section 1: Energy Flow in Ecosystems DAY 1 Chapter 5 How Ecosystems Work Section 1: Energy Flow in Ecosystems DAY 1 Life Depends on the Sun Energy from the sun enters an ecosystem when plants use sunlight to make sugar molecules. This happens through

More information

UN Climate Council Words in red are defined in vocabulary section (pg. 9)

UN Climate Council Words in red are defined in vocabulary section (pg. 9) UN Climate Council Words in red are defined in vocabulary section (pg. 9) To minimize the negative effects of global climate change, scientists have advocated for action to limit global warming to no more

More information

1. The diagram below shows a greenhouse.

1. The diagram below shows a greenhouse. 1. The diagram below shows a greenhouse. 5. A gradual increase in atmospheric carbon dioxide would warm Earth s because carbon dioxide is a A) poor reflector of ultraviolet radiation B) good reflector

More information

Global Climate Change. The sky is falling! The sky is falling!

Global Climate Change. The sky is falling! The sky is falling! Global Climate Change The sky is falling! The sky is falling! 1 Global Climate Change Radiative Equilibrium, Solar and Earth Radiation Atmospheric Greenhouse Effect Greenhouse Gases Global Climate Change

More information

PhET Greenhouse Effect

PhET Greenhouse Effect PhET Greenhouse Effect Objective: Describe how the greenhouse effect affects temperature on the earth and to use evidence to support whether the greenhouse effect is good or bad for the earth. Introduction:

More information

Air Pollution Types of air pollutants

Air Pollution Types of air pollutants Air Pollution Types of air pollutants 1.Carbon compounds (e.g., CO2,CO) 2.Sulphur compounds (e.g., SO2, H2S and H2SO4) 3.Nitrogen oxides (e.g., NO, NO2 and HNO3 ) 4.Ozone (e.g., O3) 5.Fluorocarbons 6.Hydrocarbons

More information

What is the Greenhouse Gas Contribution from Agriculture in Alberta?

What is the Greenhouse Gas Contribution from Agriculture in Alberta? What is the Greenhouse Gas Contribution from Agriculture in Alberta? The most recent GHG inventory estimated that in 2002 nationwide, agricultural related GHG emissions contributed about 59,000 kt (kilotonnnes)

More information

Page 2. Q1.Greenhouse gases affect the temperature of the Earth. Which gas is a greenhouse gas? Tick one box. Argon. Methane. Nitrogen.

Page 2. Q1.Greenhouse gases affect the temperature of the Earth. Which gas is a greenhouse gas? Tick one box. Argon. Methane. Nitrogen. Q1.Greenhouse gases affect the temperature of the Earth. (a) Which gas is a greenhouse gas? Tick one box. Argon Methane Nitrogen Oxygen (b) An increase in global temperature will cause climate change.

More information

Greenhouse Effect. How we stay warm

Greenhouse Effect. How we stay warm Greenhouse Effect How we stay warm The Sun s energy reaches Earth through Radiation (heat traveling through Space) How much solar radiation reaches Earth? The Earth s surface only absorbs 51% of incoming

More information

Biogeochemical Cycles

Biogeochemical Cycles Biogeochemical Cycles Biogeochemical Cycles refers to the cycling of materials between living things and the environment. Text Pages 50 51, 62 69 1 The Oxygen Cycle the movement of oxygen between the atmosphere

More information

GLOBAL WARMING COMPUTER LAB

GLOBAL WARMING COMPUTER LAB GLOBAL WARMING COMPUTER LAB A COMPUTER SIMULATION PROGRAM ON TEMPERATURE CHANGE AND SEA LEVEL RISING After performing this computer simulation lab you will be able to: 1) understand the greenhouse effect

More information

Global Warming Science Solar Radiation

Global Warming Science Solar Radiation SUN Ozone and Oxygen absorb 190-290 nm. Latent heat from the surface (evaporation/ condensation) Global Warming Science Solar Radiation Turbulent heat from the surface (convection) Some infrared radiation

More information

Research Question What ecological and other services do coastal wetlands provide?

Research Question What ecological and other services do coastal wetlands provide? Bringing Wetlands to Market Part 1 Introduction Blue, Green, and Bountiful: Wetlands and carbon Estuary Principle Principle 5: Humans, even those living far from the coast, rely on goods and services supplied

More information

How to Use This Presentation

How to Use This Presentation How to Use This Presentation To View the presentation as a slideshow with effects select View on the menu bar and click on Slide Show. To advance through the presentation, click the right-arrow key or

More information

ENVE203 Environmental Engineering Ecology (Oct 08, 2012)

ENVE203 Environmental Engineering Ecology (Oct 08, 2012) ENVE203 Environmental Engineering Ecology (Oct 08, 2012) Elif Soyer Ecosystem and Physical Environment Cycling of Materials within Ecosystems Energy flows in one direction through an ecosystem Matter moves

More information

Ecosystem Ecology for Wildlife Scientists. Don White, Jr., Ph.D.

Ecosystem Ecology for Wildlife Scientists. Don White, Jr., Ph.D. Ecosystem Ecology for Wildlife Scientists Don White, Jr., Ph.D. Key Concepts: An ecosystem is an association of organisms and their environment Every ecosystem is an open system, in that it has inputs

More information

THE INTRODUCTION THE GREENHOUSE EFFECT

THE INTRODUCTION THE GREENHOUSE EFFECT THE INTRODUCTION The earth is surrounded by atmosphere composed of many gases. The sun s rays penetrate through the atmosphere to the earth s surface. Gases in the atmosphere trap heat that would otherwise

More information

CHAPTER 16 Oceans & Climate Change Chapter Overview Earth s Climate System Earth s Climate System Earth s Climate System Earth s Climate System

CHAPTER 16 Oceans & Climate Change Chapter Overview Earth s Climate System Earth s Climate System Earth s Climate System Earth s Climate System 1 CHAPTER 16 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 Oceans & Climate Change Chapter Overview Humans are adding greenhouse gases to Earth s atmosphere. Climate change will cause many severe problems in the ocean environment.

More information

The Cycling of Matter

The Cycling of Matter Section 2 Objectives Describe the short-term and long-term process of the carbon cycle. Identify one way that humans are affecting the carbon cycle. List the three stages of the nitrogen cycle. Describe

More information

LECTURE #24: Mega Disasters Climate Change

LECTURE #24: Mega Disasters Climate Change GEOL 0820 Ramsey Natural Disasters Spring, 2018 LECTURE #24: Mega Disasters Climate Change Date: 17 April 2018 I. Early Earth was more similar to present-day Venus o very high amounts of carbon dioxide

More information

Climate Change Vocabulary Global Challenges for the 21 st Century Tony Del Vecchio, M.Ed. Atmosphere

Climate Change Vocabulary Global Challenges for the 21 st Century Tony Del Vecchio, M.Ed. Atmosphere Atmosphere The mixture of gases surrounding the Earth. The Earth's atmosphere consists of about 79.1% nitrogen (by volume), 20.9% oxygen, 0.036% carbon dioxide and trace amounts of other gases. The atmosphere

More information

Feedback loops modify atmospheric processes

Feedback loops modify atmospheric processes Chapter Overview CHAPTER 16 Oceans & Climate Change Humans are adding greenhouse gases to Earth s atmosphere. Climate change will cause many severe problems in the ocean environment. It is necessary to

More information

How Ecosystems Work Section 1. Chapter 5 How Ecosystems Work Section 1: Energy Flow in Ecosystems DAY 1

How Ecosystems Work Section 1. Chapter 5 How Ecosystems Work Section 1: Energy Flow in Ecosystems DAY 1 Chapter 5 How Ecosystems Work Section 1: Energy Flow in Ecosystems DAY 1 Life Depends on the Sun Energy from the sun enters an ecosystem when plants use sunlight to make sugar molecules. This happens through

More information

3 3 Cycles of Matter Slide 1 of 33

3 3 Cycles of Matter Slide 1 of 33 1 of 33 Recycling in the Biosphere Recycling in the Biosphere Energy and matter move through the biosphere very differently. Unlike the one-way flow of energy, matter is recycled within and between ecosystems.

More information

The GHG Club. Water vapour

The GHG Club. Water vapour Trace gases in our atmosphere act like the glass in a greenhouse. These trace gases trap much of the heat from the sun close to earth at night. These gases are called Greenhouse Gases (GHGs) and they help

More information

Climate Change, Greenhouse Gases and Aerosols

Climate Change, Greenhouse Gases and Aerosols Climate Change, Greenhouse Gases and Aerosols J Srinivasan J Srinivasan is a Professor at the Centre for Atmospheric and Oceanic Sciences at Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore. He was a lead author

More information

I Can Statement Conversation/Assignment

I Can Statement Conversation/Assignment I Can Statement Conversation/Assignment H.B.6B. Conceptual Understanding: Photosynthesis and cellular respiration are important components of the carbon cycle, in which carbon is exchanged between the

More information

Effects of Greenhouse Gas Emission

Effects of Greenhouse Gas Emission Effects of Greenhouse Gas Emission Reshmi Banerjee Assistant Professor, Dept. of EE, Guru Nanak Institute of Technology, Kolkata, W.B., India ABSTRACT: Gases that trap heat in the atmosphere are called

More information

Possible Exam Questions for Other Topics in Chemistry 10

Possible Exam Questions for Other Topics in Chemistry 10 Climate Change (first exam) Possible Exam Questions for Other Topics in Chemistry 10 1. Convert between the following terms and definitions Anthracite = the highest rank of coal harder, glossy black coal

More information

2.2 Nutrient Cycles in Ecosystems Name: Date: (Reference: BC Science 10 pp. 68 to 91) Block: NUTRIENT CYCLING IN THE BIOSPHERE. nutrients: aka.

2.2 Nutrient Cycles in Ecosystems Name: Date: (Reference: BC Science 10 pp. 68 to 91) Block: NUTRIENT CYCLING IN THE BIOSPHERE. nutrients: aka. 2.2 Nutrient Cycles in Ecosystems Name: Date: (Reference: BC Science 10 pp. 68 to 91) Block: NUTRIENT CYCLING IN THE BIOSPHERE nutrients: stores: aka Nutrients are accumulated for short or long periods

More information

2.1 Ecology & Ecosystem Structure

2.1 Ecology & Ecosystem Structure 2.1 Ecology & Ecosystem Structure Learning Goals: 1. Explain how biotic and abiotic factors influence 2. Explain how the flow of energy through ecosystems obeys the 2nd law of thermodynamics. 3. Calculate

More information

NUTRIENT CYCLES REVIEW

NUTRIENT CYCLES REVIEW 52 Name A.P. Environmental Science Date Mr. Romano NUTRIENT CYCLES REVIEW 1. Which of the following chain of events would occur as a result of land clearing/deforestation? (vocabulary check: efflux means

More information

Chapter 5: How Ecosystems Work Section 1, Energy Flow in Ecosystems

Chapter 5: How Ecosystems Work Section 1, Energy Flow in Ecosystems Life Depends on the Sun Chapter 5: How Ecosystems Work Section 1, Energy Flow in Ecosystems Energy from the sun enters an ecosystem when plants use sunlight to make sugar molecules. This happens through

More information

Chapter 19 Global Change

Chapter 19 Global Change Chapter 19 Global Change Global Change Global change- any chemical, biological or physical property change of the planet. Examples include cold temperatures causing ice ages. Global climate change-changes

More information

BC Science Nutrient Cycles in Ecosystems

BC Science Nutrient Cycles in Ecosystems BC Science 10 2.2 Nutrient Cycles in Ecosystems Notes Nutrients are chemicals required for growth and other life processes. Nutrients move through the biosphere in nutrient cycles (n.c), or exchanges.

More information

Carbon Cycle LT 1-6 Review. LT 1 I can describe the three primary processes of the biological (short) carbon cycle.

Carbon Cycle LT 1-6 Review. LT 1 I can describe the three primary processes of the biological (short) carbon cycle. Carbon Cycle LT 1-6 Review Name Date LT 1 I can describe the three primary processes of the biological (short) carbon cycle. 1. What is the Law of Conservation of Matter and how does it apply to the carbon

More information

Unit 3 Lesson 1 Earth s Support of Life. Copyright Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company

Unit 3 Lesson 1 Earth s Support of Life. Copyright Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company Living It Up What do living things need to survive? Earth is covered in living things. The basic necessities of life are air, water, a source of energy, and a habitat to live in. How do Earth and the sun

More information

Radiative Forcing Components

Radiative Forcing Components Radiative Forcing Components Content Definition of Radiative Forcing Radiation Balance Climate sensitivity Solar forcing Forcing due to atmospheric gas Definition of Radiative Forcing In climate science,

More information

Chapter 19 Global Change

Chapter 19 Global Change Chapter 19 Global Change Global Change change - any chemical, biological or physical property change of the planet. Examples include cold temperatures causing ice ages. Global change - changes in the climate

More information

Ecology Part 2: How Ecosystems Work

Ecology Part 2: How Ecosystems Work Ecology Part 2: How Ecosystems Work Name: Unit 2 1 In this second part of Unit 2, our big idea questions are: SECTION 1 How is energy transferred from the Sun to producers and then to consumers? Why do

More information

Acid deposition accumulation of potential acid-forming particles on a surface acids can result from natural causes

Acid deposition accumulation of potential acid-forming particles on a surface acids can result from natural causes 1 Air Quality Issues: Part 2 - Acid Deposition, Greenhouse Gases EVPP 111 Lecture Dr. Largen 2 Air Quality Issues Air Pollution Indoor Air Pollution Acid Deposition Greenhouse Gases & Global Warming 3

More information

RENEWABLE ENERGY NON-RENEWABLE ENERGY

RENEWABLE ENERGY NON-RENEWABLE ENERGY Hydro Solar Biomass RENEWABLE ENERGY The motion associated with rapidly falling water, waves and tidal currents can be harnessed to drive turbines and generate electricity. RENEWABLE ENERGY Energy from

More information

The September Equinox is today: Sep 23rd! It s considered the traditional end of Summer and the beginning of Fall

The September Equinox is today: Sep 23rd! It s considered the traditional end of Summer and the beginning of Fall More coming up in Topic #11 (class notes p 61) The September Equinox is today: Sep 23rd! It s considered the traditional end of Summer and the beginning of Fall The Sun s rays have greatest intensity right

More information

Lesson 1.2 Recycling Matter

Lesson 1.2 Recycling Matter Lesson 1.2 Recycling Matter Lesson Objectives Define biogeochemical cycles. Describe the water cycle and its processes. Give an overview of the carbon cycle. Outline the steps of the nitrogen cycle. Lesson

More information

AIR IS DIFFICULT to describe. We

AIR IS DIFFICULT to describe. We The Significance of Air in Plant Growth AIR IS DIFFICULT to describe. We cannot see it or smell it. We can feel the wind blow, but we cannot feel still air. Cold air can have a bite, and hot air can be

More information

2.2 Nutrient Cycles in Ecosystems

2.2 Nutrient Cycles in Ecosystems 2.2 Nutrient Cycles in Ecosystems CARBON CYCLE A. Carbon Facts: Carbon is found in all living matter. Places that carbon is found are called stores or sinks Short-term Stores Long-term Stores - living

More information

Chapter 11: Atmosphere

Chapter 11: Atmosphere To get you thinking This is our atmosphere. All life on Earth exists within this tiny protective blanket. Why is the atmosphere important to us? What do you think it does for us? Chapter 11: Atmosphere

More information

The water cycle describes the continuous movement of water on, above and below the surface

The water cycle describes the continuous movement of water on, above and below the surface Nitrogen and carbon cycles Water cycle The water cycle describes the continuous movement of water on, above and below the surface It is driven by radiation, convection and advection. It includes solid,

More information

UNIT 1 SUSTAINING ECOSYSTEMS

UNIT 1 SUSTAINING ECOSYSTEMS UNIT 1 SUSTAINING ECOSYSTEMS Chapter 2 Biogeochemical Cycles Science 10 Change & Recovery in Ecosystems (you do not need to copy) What happens to the materials that make up a truck when it begins to rust?

More information

Nutrient Cycles How are nutrients recycled through ecosystems?

Nutrient Cycles How are nutrients recycled through ecosystems? Nutrient Cycles How are nutrients recycled through ecosystems? Why? We have learned the importance of recycling our trash. It allows us to use something again for another purpose and prevents the loss

More information

1 st find water. Search for Life

1 st find water. Search for Life 1 st find water Search for Life Phoenix landed Phoenix Sunday found water 25 May in 2008 2008 Search for life 2 nd look for organic molecules Definition of organic molecules contains C and H Examples sugars,

More information

READING QUESTIONS: Global Climate Change GEOL /WI. 2. Fill in the blanks in the following sentences from the textbook (p.

READING QUESTIONS: Global Climate Change GEOL /WI. 2. Fill in the blanks in the following sentences from the textbook (p. READING QUESTIONS: Global Climate Change GEOL 131 18/WI NAME DUE: Tuesday, April 24 57pts Climate and Geology (p. 382) 1. List the five spheres included in the climate system. (5 pts) Detecting Climate

More information

Prepare for Learning. A 4000 year old corpse preserved in ice. Why hasn t it decomposed?

Prepare for Learning. A 4000 year old corpse preserved in ice. Why hasn t it decomposed? Prepare for Learning A 4000 year old corpse preserved in ice. Why hasn t it decomposed? Why is carbon important? Carbon is the main constituent of all living cells (biochemistry, organic chemistry) Component

More information

Essentials of Oceanography Eleventh Edition

Essentials of Oceanography Eleventh Edition Chapter Chapter 1 16 Clickers Lecture Essentials of Oceanography Eleventh Edition The Oceans and Climate Change Alan P. Trujillo Harold V. Thurman Chapter Overview Humans are adding greenhouse gases to

More information

Earth as a System. Chapter 2. Table of Contents. Section 1 Earth: A Unique Planet. Section 2 Energy in the Earth System.

Earth as a System. Chapter 2. Table of Contents. Section 1 Earth: A Unique Planet. Section 2 Energy in the Earth System. Earth as a System Table of Contents Section 1 Earth: A Unique Planet Section 2 Energy in the Earth System Section 3 Ecology Section 1 Earth: A Unique Planet Objectives Describe the size and shape of Earth.

More information

Ecosystems and Nutrient Cycles Chapters 3

Ecosystems and Nutrient Cycles Chapters 3 Ecosystems and Nutrient Cycles Chapters 3 Prokaryotic and Eukaryotic cells Figure 3-2 Prokaryotic cells: Have organelles. Bacteria and Archaea are composed of prokaryotic cells. Eukaryotic cells: cells,

More information

THE CYCLING OF NUTRIENTS

THE CYCLING OF NUTRIENTS Unit 4 THE CYCLING OF NUTRIENTS LEARNING OBJECTIVES 1. Recognize the need for the recycling of the earth s chemicals and the consequences if this is not done. 2. Learn the difference between a global cycle

More information