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The Earth’s early atmosphere contained larger amounts of water vapour and carbon dioxide than it does today - Edexcel - GCSE Chemistry - Question 1 - 2016 - Paper 1
Question 1
The Earth’s early atmosphere contained larger amounts of water vapour and carbon dioxide than it does today. Explain how the amounts of water vapour and carbon diox... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:The Earth’s early atmosphere contained larger amounts of water vapour and carbon dioxide than it does today - Edexcel - GCSE Chemistry - Question 1 - 2016 - Paper 1
Step 1
Explain how the amounts of water vapour and carbon dioxide in the Earth’s atmosphere decreased.
Answer
Water vapour in the Earth's atmosphere decreased as it condensed into liquid, forming oceans and seas. This process resulted in reduced humidity and a drop in atmospheric water vapour levels. Similarly, the levels of carbon dioxide decreased when it was absorbed by the oceans and incorporated into rocks through processes such as photosynthesis, which utilized carbon dioxide to produce oxygen.
Step 2
Describe how the presence of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere helps to keep the Earth warm.
Answer
Carbon dioxide (CO₂) in the atmosphere plays a crucial role in trapping heat. It absorbs infrared radiation emitted from the Earth's surface, preventing it from escaping into space. This greenhouse effect helps maintain the Earth's temperature, making it suitable for life.
Step 3
State a human activity, apart from burning fuels, that has increased the percentage of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere.
Answer
Deforestation is a significant human activity that contributes to increased carbon dioxide levels in the atmosphere. The removal of trees reduces the capacity of the environment to absorb CO₂ through photosynthesis.