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Examine the environmental impact of burning fossil fuels. - Leaving Cert Geography - Question B - 2013
Question B
Examine the environmental impact of burning fossil fuels.
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Examine the environmental impact of burning fossil fuels. - Leaving Cert Geography - Question B - 2013
Step 1
Identify environmental impacts
Answer
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Air Pollution: Burning fossil fuels releases pollutants such as carbon dioxide (CO2), sulfur dioxide (SO2), and nitrogen oxides (NOx) into the atmosphere, contributing to respiratory diseases and environmental degradation.
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Climate Change: Increased CO2 emissions from fossil fuel combustion significantly contribute to global warming and climate change, leading to extreme weather events, rising sea levels, and habitat loss.
Step 2
Examine air pollution
Answer
Air pollution from fossil fuel combustion is a major concern. Pollutants like sulfur dioxide can lead to acid rain, which harms ecosystems and human health. Furthermore, nitrogen oxides contribute to the formation of ground-level ozone, affecting air quality and causing health problems such as asthma and bronchitis.
Step 3
Examine climate change
Answer
The combustion of fossil fuels is one of the largest sources of greenhouse gas emissions. These emissions lead to an increase in the Earth's average temperature, which in turn affects weather patterns, melting of polar ice caps, and rising sea levels, posing risks to coastal communities and biodiversity.