Question 1: Define the Greenhouse Effect and explain its importance in maintaining Earth's temperature.

Answer: The Greenhouse Effect is the process by which certain gases in Earth's atmosphere trap heat from the Sun, maintaining a suitable temperature for life. It is vital for keeping Earth's surface warm enough to support ecosystems.

Question 2: Name three major greenhouse gases involved in climate change.

Answer: Carbon dioxide (CO₂), methane (CH₄), nitrous oxide (N₂O).

Question 3: Describe how increased levels of greenhouse gases can influence global temperatures.

Answer: Higher levels of greenhouse gases increase the Earth's ability to trap heat, leading to a rise in global temperatures, which contributes to climate change.

Question 1: Calculate the increase in Earth's surface temperature if the concentration of CO₂ doubles from 280 ppm to 560 ppm. Use the approximate climate sensitivity factor of 0.8°C per doubling of CO₂.

Answer: 0.8°C

Question 2: If the current atmospheric concentration of methane (CH₄) is 1.8 ppm, and its global warming potential (GWP) over 100 years is 25, what is the equivalent amount of CO₂ in ppm?

Answer: 45 ppm

Question 1: Outline a basic experimental method to measure the concentration of CO₂ in a sample of air collected from a suspected illegal emissions site.

Answer: Collect air sample using a sealed container, pass it through a chemical absorbent like sodium hydroxide solution to absorb CO₂, then titrate the solution with a standard acid to determine CO₂ amount. Variables include sample volume and temperature; safety precautions involve wearing gloves and eye protection.

Question 2: Identify two variables that must be controlled during this experiment and explain their importance.

Answer: Temperature and sample volume; controlling these ensures accurate and consistent measurements of CO₂ concentration.

Question 1: A forensic report indicates that a recent air sample contains 420 ppm of CO₂, higher than the current atmospheric average of 415 ppm. Discuss possible reasons for this increase and its implications for local climate conditions.

Answer: Possible reasons include nearby industrial emissions, transportation pollution, or deforestation reducing carbon sinks. The increase suggests enhanced greenhouse effect locally, potentially leading to higher temperatures, changing weather patterns, and contributing to global climate change.

Question 1: Explain how forensic analysis of greenhouse gases can help industries reduce their carbon footprint and combat climate change.

Answer: By analysing emission data, industries can identify sources of greenhouse gases, implement targeted reduction strategies, and monitor compliance with regulations, thereby reducing their overall carbon footprint.

Question 2: Describe a technological advancement that uses forensic analysis to detect illegal greenhouse gas emissions from industrial sites.

Answer: Infrared spectroscopy combined with portable gas analysers can detect and quantify specific greenhouse gases in emissions, enabling authorities to identify illegal or excessive emissions efficiently and enforce environmental regulations.

Question 3: Multiple Choice: Which of the following gases is most associated with recent industrial greenhouse gas emissions?

Answer: b) Carbon dioxide (CO₂)