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In 2007 former US Vice-President Al Gore and the UN Climate Change Committee were awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for their work in highlighting climate change - Leaving Cert Chemistry - Question A - 2008
Question A
In 2007 former US Vice-President Al Gore and the UN Climate Change Committee were awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for their work in highlighting climate change. Carbo... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:In 2007 former US Vice-President Al Gore and the UN Climate Change Committee were awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for their work in highlighting climate change - Leaving Cert Chemistry - Question A - 2008
Step 1
Explain the underlined terms.
Answer
The term greenhouse gas refers to an atmospheric gas that absorbs, retains, and prevents the escape of infrared radiation, thereby contributing to global warming.
The term acidic oxide is defined as an oxide that increases the hydrogen ion concentration in water, resulting in a lower pH. Such oxides typically generate acids that react with bases to neutralize them.
Step 2
State two major ways by which human activities contribute to the addition of carbon dioxide to the atmosphere.
Answer
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Combustion of fossil fuels: This includes the burning of gas, oil, and coal for energy, significantly increasing carbon dioxide emissions.
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Deforestation: The clearing of forests reduces the number of trees that can absorb carbon dioxide, exacerbating the atmospheric concentration of this gas.
Step 3
What three chemical species form as a result of carbon dioxide gas dissolving in water?
Answer
- Carbonic acid (H₂CO₃): Formed when CO₂ reacts with water.
- Bicarbonate ion (HCO₃⁻): A product of carbonic acid dissociation.
- Carbonate ion (CO₃²⁻): Can form from bicarbonate under certain conditions.
Step 4