All Flashcards
What is the effect of increased atmospheric CO2?
Increased atmospheric CO2 leads to global warming and climate change.
What are the health effects of particulate matter (PM)?
Particulate matter can cause serious respiratory issues and other health problems.
What is the effect of SO2 emissions from volcanoes?
SO2 emissions contribute to acid rain.
What is the effect of deforestation on CO2 levels?
Deforestation reduces the amount of CO2 absorbed by trees, leading to increased atmospheric CO2 levels.
What is the effect of increased methane emissions?
Methane is a potent greenhouse gas, so increased emissions contribute to global warming.
What is the effect of volcanic ash in the atmosphere?
Volcanic ash can disrupt air travel, damage respiratory health, and affect air quality and visibility.
What is the effect of CO exposure from wildfires?
Reduces oxygen absorption, causing headaches and nausea.
What is the effect of VOCs in the atmosphere?
Contribute to smog and ozone formation.
What are the steps of aerobic decomposition?
Microorganisms break down organic matter + Oxygen -> CO2 + Water + Energy.
What are the steps of anaerobic decomposition?
Microorganisms break down organic matter -> Methane (CH4) + CO2 + Other gases.
Describe the process by which lightning strikes generate NOx.
High temperatures from lightning cause rapid oxidation of nitrogen and oxygen, creating NOx.
Describe the process by which plants release VOCs.
Plants release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) during photosynthesis.
Define Carbon Dioxide (CO2).
A major greenhouse gas that traps heat in the atmosphere.
Define Particulate Matter (PM).
Tiny particles in the air, like dust, soot, or smoke.
Define VOCs.
Volatile Organic Compounds; contribute to smog and ozone formation.
Define NOx.
Nitrogen oxides; contribute to smog, acid rain, and ground-level ozone.
Define Aerobic Decomposition.
Breakdown of organic matter by microorganisms in the presence of oxygen, releasing CO2.
Define Anaerobic Decomposition.
Breakdown of organic matter by microorganisms in the absence of oxygen, releasing methane (CH4) and CO2.
Define SO2.
Sulfur dioxide; contributes to acid rain and respiratory problems.
Define Greenhouse Gas.
A gas that traps heat in the atmosphere, contributing to global warming.
Define Respiration.
Process where living organisms convert food into energy, releasing CO2.
Define Global Warming.
The long-term heating of Earth's climate system observed since the pre-industrial period (between 1850 and 1900) due to human activities, primarily fossil fuel burning, which increases heat-trapping greenhouse gas levels in Earth's atmosphere.