Chapter 30: Problem 2

What are the major sources of greenhouse gases, especially \(\mathrm{CO}_{2} ?\)

Short Answer

Expert verified

Answer: Major sources of greenhouse gases, especially carbon dioxide, include fossil fuel combustion, deforestation, industrial processes, agriculture, land-use changes, and waste generation. These activities release carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases into the atmosphere, contributing to climate change.

Step by step solution

1. Fossil fuel combustion

Fossil fuel combustion is the primary source of CO2 emissions. Fossil fuels like coal, oil, and natural gas are burned for energy production, resulting in the release of carbon dioxide. Common activities that involve the burning of fossil fuels include electricity generation, transportation, industrial processes, and residential heating.

2. Deforestation

Deforestation, which is the clearance or removal of forests, is another significant contributor to CO2 emissions. Trees absorb CO2 from the atmosphere, and when they are cut down or burned, they release the stored carbon back into the atmosphere.

3. Industrial processes

Many industrial processes emit large amounts of carbon dioxide. For example, cement production and the production of metals such as iron and steel release significant amounts of CO2. Additionally, some chemical processes, like the production of ammonia, also result in CO2 emissions.

4. Agriculture

Agriculture activities contribute to greenhouse gas emissions, predominantly methane (\mathrm{CH}_{4}) and nitrous oxide (\mathrm{N}_{2}\mathrm{O}). However, agriculture can also release CO2 through the use of fossil fuels for farming equipment and the application of nitrogen-based fertilizers, which can lead to the decomposition of soil organic matter, resulting in CO2 emissions.

5. Land-use changes

Land-use changes, such as urbanization and conversion of land for agriculture, can lead to significant CO2 emissions. When natural ecosystems are converted into human-made landscapes, the balance of CO2 absorption and emission is disrupted, potentially leading to a net increase in atmospheric CO2 levels.

6. Waste generation

Waste generation, particularly from the decomposition of organic materials in landfills, can release both methane and CO2 into the atmosphere. Additionally, the incineration of waste materials generates CO2 emissions from the combustion of carbon-containing materials.

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What are the major sources of greenhouse gases, especially \(\mathrm{CO}_{2} ?\)

Short Answer

Step by step solution

1. Fossil fuel combustion

2. Deforestation

3. Industrial processes

4. Agriculture

5. Land-use changes

6. Waste generation

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