Geologic Biologic and Human Affects on the Atmosphere

Geologic, Biologic, and Human Affects on the Atmosphere

Three Factors affect the Atmosphere on a daily basis… n Geologic factors – volcanoes and meteors n Biologic factors – plants and animals n Human factors – pollution

Geologic Factors Volcanoes n n n Through outgassing, volcanoes vent water vapor (H 2 O), carbon dioxide (CO 2), nitrogen (N 2), and carbon monoxide (CO) into the atmosphere. Volcanoes can create changes in climate if they spew large enough pieces of volcanic debris.

Geologic Factors, cont’ n Meteorite Impacts n Can inject large quantities of dust and gas into the atmosphere as well.

Biologic Factors n It is believed that 18% of the Greenhouse Effect is caused by methane. n Methane breaks down in the atmosphere to form carbon dioxide, ozone, and water, all of which absorb heat – thus increasing the temperature in the atmosphere.

Biologic Factors cont’ n There are several biologic sources of methane: n rice paddies, swamps and wetlands n "biomass burning" (methaneproducing bacteria thrive in the underwater environment) (notably in the Amazon rain forest) n Animals (cud-chewers: sheep, goats, cows)

Human Factors n Ground-level ozone production n n Causes lung and respiratory disorders possibly birth defects. Acid rain (nitric acid and sulfuric acid) n n Damages aquatic ecosystems. Depletes soil of some nutrients. Harms plant-life. Causes increased respiratory illnesses.

Human Factors, cont’ n Ozone Layer Depletion n CFC production in the early 70’s has created a ‘hole’ in the ozone layer. Causes human eye damage, skin cancer and reduced crop yield. Global Warming n n Over the last 150 years we’ve seen an increase in the Earth’s surface temperature. Causes trouble with crop yield, climate patterns, and the maintenance of our ice caps.