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How Earth's Air Changed, Greenhouse Gases Hurt, and Ways to Help!

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Annie Owen-Stiff

7/9/2022

Chemistry

chemistry C9- Evolution of the atmosphere

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Overview

How Earth's Air Changed, Greenhouse Gases Hurt, and Ways to Help!

The evolution of the Earth's atmosphere over billion years transformed from a volcanic CO₂-rich environment to our current breathable atmosphere, highlighting the crucial role of plant life and the growing concern about the impact of greenhouse gases on climate change.

Key points:

  • Earth's atmosphere evolved through three distinct phases, starting with volcanic emissions
  • The development of plant life was crucial in establishing oxygen levels
  • Modern human activities have accelerated climate change through increased greenhouse gas emissions
  • Various methods to reduce carbon footprints and emissions are being implemented globally
...

7/9/2022

265

PHASE 1 → first billion years the surface was covered in volcanoes that erupted + released lots of gases, forming early atmosphere. ↓ mostly

View

Phase 2: Formation of Oceans and Carbon Sequestration

The second phase of atmospheric evolution was marked by significant changes in the Earth's surface and composition. This period saw the formation of oceans and the beginning of carbon sequestration processes.

As the Earth cooled, the water vapor in the atmosphere began to condense, forming the planet's oceans. This process had a profound effect on the atmospheric composition, as large amounts of CO₂ were removed from the air by dissolving in the newly formed oceans. The dissolved CO₂ underwent a series of chemical reactions, forming carbon precipitates that settled on the seabed as sediments.

During this phase, the first green plants and algae evolved. These organisms played a crucial role in further reducing atmospheric CO₂ levels by absorbing it for photosynthesis. Some of the carbon absorbed by these early life forms eventually became fossil fuels after their death and burial.

Definition: Carbon sequestration - The process of capturing and storing atmospheric carbon dioxide.

Example: The formation of limestone deposits on the ocean floor is an example of natural carbon sequestration.

PHASE 1 → first billion years the surface was covered in volcanoes that erupted + released lots of gases, forming early atmosphere. ↓ mostly

View

Greenhouse Gases and Climate Change

Greenhouse gases, primarily CO₂, methane, and water vapor, play a significant role in regulating Earth's temperature. These gases act as an insulating layer in the Earth's atmosphere, trapping heat and contributing to the greenhouse effect.

The impact of greenhouse gases on climate change is substantial. These gases don't absorb short-wavelength radiation but do absorb and re-radiate long-wavelength radiation in all directions, including back to Earth. This process, known as the greenhouse effect, warms the planet.

Human activities have significantly increased the concentration of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, leading to accelerated climate change. Some key factors contributing to this increase include:

  1. Burning of fossil fuels
  2. Deforestation, which reduces CO₂ absorption through photosynthesis
  3. Agriculture, particularly livestock farming, which increases methane emissions
  4. Waste creation and decomposition, releasing CO₂ and methane

Highlight: The impact of greenhouse gases on climate change is evident in rising sea levels, changes in rainfall patterns, and increased frequency and severity of storms.

PHASE 1 → first billion years the surface was covered in volcanoes that erupted + released lots of gases, forming early atmosphere. ↓ mostly

View

Phase 3: Oxygen-Rich Atmosphere

The third phase of atmospheric evolution saw a dramatic increase in oxygen levels, leading to the composition similar to what we have today.

About 200 million years ago, the Earth's atmosphere reached a composition similar to its current state. This transformation was primarily driven by the proliferation of plants and algae, which produced oxygen as a byproduct of photosynthesis.

The current atmosphere consists of approximately 80% nitrogen and 20% oxygen, with small amounts of other gases, including CO₂, noble gases, and water vapor.

Quote: "200 million years ago atmosphere reached a composition similar to one it is today."

PHASE 1 → first billion years the surface was covered in volcanoes that erupted + released lots of gases, forming early atmosphere. ↓ mostly

View

Carbon Footprints and Reduction Methods

Carbon footprints are a measure of the total greenhouse gas emissions caused directly and indirectly by an individual, organization, event, or product. Measuring carbon footprints can be challenging due to the many factors involved, from sourcing materials to disposal.

There are various methods to reduce carbon footprints and emissions, including:

  1. Transitioning to renewable energy sources
  2. Implementing more efficient processes to conserve energy
  3. Reducing waste production
  4. Government regulations on emissions

Governments often implement policies to cap emissions of greenhouse gases and may tax companies based on the amount of greenhouse gases they produce.

Definition: Carbon footprint - The total amount of greenhouse gases produced to directly and indirectly support human activities, usually expressed in equivalent tons of carbon dioxide CO2CO₂.

Example: Choosing to cycle instead of drive, or using energy-efficient appliances are ways individuals can reduce their carbon footprint.

PHASE 1 → first billion years the surface was covered in volcanoes that erupted + released lots of gases, forming early atmosphere. ↓ mostly

View

Carbon Footprint Assessment

Understanding and measuring carbon footprints involves complex calculations considering multiple factors throughout product lifecycles.

Definition: Carbon footprint represents the total greenhouse gas emissions caused directly and indirectly by an individual, organization, or product.

PHASE 1 → first billion years the surface was covered in volcanoes that erupted + released lots of gases, forming early atmosphere. ↓ mostly

View

Reduction Strategies and Government Action

Various approaches are being implemented to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and combat climate change.

Example: Key strategies include:

  • Adoption of renewable energy sources
  • Implementation of more efficient industrial processes
  • Energy conservation measures
  • Government regulations on greenhouse gas emissions
  • Waste reduction initiatives

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Jun 27, 2025

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7 pages

How Earth's Air Changed, Greenhouse Gases Hurt, and Ways to Help!

A

Annie Owen-Stiff

@annieowenstiff_dvtk

The evolution of the Earth's atmosphere over billion years transformed from a volcanic CO₂-rich environment to our current breathable atmosphere, highlighting the crucial role of plant life and the growing concern about the impact of greenhouse gases on climate change... Show more

PHASE 1 → first billion years the surface was covered in volcanoes that erupted + released lots of gases, forming early atmosphere. ↓ mostly

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Phase 2: Formation of Oceans and Carbon Sequestration

The second phase of atmospheric evolution was marked by significant changes in the Earth's surface and composition. This period saw the formation of oceans and the beginning of carbon sequestration processes.

As the Earth cooled, the water vapor in the atmosphere began to condense, forming the planet's oceans. This process had a profound effect on the atmospheric composition, as large amounts of CO₂ were removed from the air by dissolving in the newly formed oceans. The dissolved CO₂ underwent a series of chemical reactions, forming carbon precipitates that settled on the seabed as sediments.

During this phase, the first green plants and algae evolved. These organisms played a crucial role in further reducing atmospheric CO₂ levels by absorbing it for photosynthesis. Some of the carbon absorbed by these early life forms eventually became fossil fuels after their death and burial.

Definition: Carbon sequestration - The process of capturing and storing atmospheric carbon dioxide.

Example: The formation of limestone deposits on the ocean floor is an example of natural carbon sequestration.

PHASE 1 → first billion years the surface was covered in volcanoes that erupted + released lots of gases, forming early atmosphere. ↓ mostly

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Greenhouse Gases and Climate Change

Greenhouse gases, primarily CO₂, methane, and water vapor, play a significant role in regulating Earth's temperature. These gases act as an insulating layer in the Earth's atmosphere, trapping heat and contributing to the greenhouse effect.

The impact of greenhouse gases on climate change is substantial. These gases don't absorb short-wavelength radiation but do absorb and re-radiate long-wavelength radiation in all directions, including back to Earth. This process, known as the greenhouse effect, warms the planet.

Human activities have significantly increased the concentration of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, leading to accelerated climate change. Some key factors contributing to this increase include:

  1. Burning of fossil fuels
  2. Deforestation, which reduces CO₂ absorption through photosynthesis
  3. Agriculture, particularly livestock farming, which increases methane emissions
  4. Waste creation and decomposition, releasing CO₂ and methane

Highlight: The impact of greenhouse gases on climate change is evident in rising sea levels, changes in rainfall patterns, and increased frequency and severity of storms.

PHASE 1 → first billion years the surface was covered in volcanoes that erupted + released lots of gases, forming early atmosphere. ↓ mostly

Phase 3: Oxygen-Rich Atmosphere

The third phase of atmospheric evolution saw a dramatic increase in oxygen levels, leading to the composition similar to what we have today.

About 200 million years ago, the Earth's atmosphere reached a composition similar to its current state. This transformation was primarily driven by the proliferation of plants and algae, which produced oxygen as a byproduct of photosynthesis.

The current atmosphere consists of approximately 80% nitrogen and 20% oxygen, with small amounts of other gases, including CO₂, noble gases, and water vapor.

Quote: "200 million years ago atmosphere reached a composition similar to one it is today."

PHASE 1 → first billion years the surface was covered in volcanoes that erupted + released lots of gases, forming early atmosphere. ↓ mostly

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Carbon Footprints and Reduction Methods

Carbon footprints are a measure of the total greenhouse gas emissions caused directly and indirectly by an individual, organization, event, or product. Measuring carbon footprints can be challenging due to the many factors involved, from sourcing materials to disposal.

There are various methods to reduce carbon footprints and emissions, including:

  1. Transitioning to renewable energy sources
  2. Implementing more efficient processes to conserve energy
  3. Reducing waste production
  4. Government regulations on emissions

Governments often implement policies to cap emissions of greenhouse gases and may tax companies based on the amount of greenhouse gases they produce.

Definition: Carbon footprint - The total amount of greenhouse gases produced to directly and indirectly support human activities, usually expressed in equivalent tons of carbon dioxide CO2CO₂.

Example: Choosing to cycle instead of drive, or using energy-efficient appliances are ways individuals can reduce their carbon footprint.

PHASE 1 → first billion years the surface was covered in volcanoes that erupted + released lots of gases, forming early atmosphere. ↓ mostly

Carbon Footprint Assessment

Understanding and measuring carbon footprints involves complex calculations considering multiple factors throughout product lifecycles.

Definition: Carbon footprint represents the total greenhouse gas emissions caused directly and indirectly by an individual, organization, or product.

PHASE 1 → first billion years the surface was covered in volcanoes that erupted + released lots of gases, forming early atmosphere. ↓ mostly

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Reduction Strategies and Government Action

Various approaches are being implemented to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and combat climate change.

Example: Key strategies include:

  • Adoption of renewable energy sources
  • Implementation of more efficient industrial processes
  • Energy conservation measures
  • Government regulations on greenhouse gas emissions
  • Waste reduction initiatives
PHASE 1 → first billion years the surface was covered in volcanoes that erupted + released lots of gases, forming early atmosphere. ↓ mostly

Phase 1: The Early Atmosphere

The first billion years of Earth's history saw the formation of its early atmosphere through intense volcanic activity. This period was characterized by the release of various gases that would shape the planet's future.

During this phase, the Earth's surface was covered in volcanoes that erupted continuously, releasing large amounts of gases into the atmosphere. These gases primarily consisted of carbon dioxide CO2CO₂, with virtually no oxygen present. Additionally, the volcanic eruptions released nitrogen, water vapor, and small amounts of methane and ammonia.

Highlight: The early Earth's atmosphere was predominantly composed of carbon dioxide, with no oxygen present.

Vocabulary: Volcanic eruptions - The ejection of molten rock, ash, and gases from a volcano.

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Stefan S

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This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

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Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

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I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️

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Brad T

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Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

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Greenlight Bonnie

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