Chapter 30: Problem 1

Why is \(\mathrm{CO}_{2}\) called a greenhouse gas?

Short Answer

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Answer: Carbon dioxide (\(\mathrm{CO}_{2}\)) is considered a greenhouse gas because of its ability to absorb and emit infrared radiation. The molecular structure of \(\mathrm{CO}_{2}\) allows it to capture this radiation, which is then re-emitted in all directions, including back towards the Earth's surface. This process traps heat and contributes to the greenhouse effect, which helps maintain the Earth's habitable temperature. However, an increase in atmospheric \(\mathrm{CO}_{2}\) concentration can lead to enhanced greenhouse effect and global warming.

Step by step solution

Understand the Greenhouse Effect

The greenhouse effect is a natural process that warms the Earth's surface. The Earth is warmed by sunlight in the form of shortwave radiation. Some of this energy is absorbed by the Earth, while some is reflected back into space. The Earth then emits longwave (infrared) radiation, much of this heat is absorbed by various gases in the atmosphere, called greenhouse gases, and is sent back to the Earth's surface. This process traps heat and keeps the Earth at a habitable temperature.

Define Greenhouse Gases

Greenhouse gases are gases in the atmosphere that absorb and emit radiation within the thermal infrared range, resulting in the greenhouse effect. The primary greenhouse gases are water vapor, carbon dioxide (\(\mathrm{CO}_{2}\)), methane, nitrous oxide, and ozone.

Identify Carbon Dioxide as a Greenhouse Gas

Carbon dioxide (\(\mathrm{CO}_{2}\)) is a colorless gas that is released naturally through processes like respiration, volcanic activity, and the breakdown of organic matter. Human activities such as the burning of fossil fuels (coal, oil, and natural gas), deforestation, and cement production also release \(\mathrm{CO}_{2}\) into the atmosphere.

Explain Why \(\mathrm{CO}_{2}\) is Called a Greenhouse Gas

\(\mathrm{CO}_{2}\) is called a greenhouse gas because of its ability to absorb and emit infrared radiation. The molecular structure of \(\mathrm{CO}_{2}\) allows it to vibrate in ways that can absorb infrared radiation. When infrared radiation from the Earth's surface encounters a \(\mathrm{CO}_{2}\) molecule in the atmosphere, the molecule absorbs the radiation and then re-emits it in all directions. Some of this radiation goes back to the Earth's surface, warming the planet. As the concentration of \(\mathrm{CO}_{2}\) in the atmosphere increases, more heat is trapped, further enhancing the greenhouse effect and contributing to global warming.

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Why is \(\mathrm{CO}_{2}\) called a greenhouse gas?

Short Answer

Step by step solution

Understand the Greenhouse Effect

Define Greenhouse Gases

Identify Carbon Dioxide as a Greenhouse Gas

Explain Why \(\mathrm{CO}_{2}\) is Called a Greenhouse Gas

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