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Carbon dioxide is one of the so-called greenhouse gases. These gases hold heat energy in the

atmosphere, which raises the overall remperarure of the Farth. This helps maincain the Earths biosphere,

but also has led to environmental concerns. The more in the atmosphere, the higher the Earth's

average temperature will be.

20. What is another way in which human activity is increasing the amount of atmospheric CO, and

what are potential global effects of chese changes in levels?

Human Activities Increasing Atmospheric

1. Fossil Fuel Combustion: The burning of fossil fuels (coal, oil, and natural gas) for energy and transportation is the primary source of increased emissions. This includes electricity generation, heating, and powering vehicles.
2. Deforestation: Trees absorb during photosynthesis. When forests are cut down for agriculture, urban development, or logging, not only is this carbon-absorbing capacity reduced, but the carbon stored in trees is also released back into the atmosphere.
3. Industrial Processes: Certain industrial activities, such as cement production and chemical manufacturing, release significant amounts of as a byproduct.
4. Agriculture: Agricultural practices, including the use of fertilizers and livestock production, can also contribute to increased greenhouse gas emissions, including .

Potential Global Effects of Increased Levels

1. Global Warming: Increased levels enhance the greenhouse effect, leading to a rise in global temperatures. This can result in more frequent and severe heatwaves.
2. Climate Change: Higher temperatures can disrupt weather patterns, leading to extreme weather events such as hurricanes, floods, and droughts. This can affect agriculture, water supply, and biodiversity.
3. Ocean Acidification: A significant portion of atmospheric is absorbed by oceans, leading to acidification. This can harm marine life, particularly organisms with calcium carbonate shells or skeletons, such as corals and shellfish.
4. Melting Ice Caps and Rising Sea Levels: Increased temperatures contribute to the melting of polar ice caps and glaciers, resulting in rising sea levels. This poses a threat to coastal communities and ecosystems.
5. Impact on Ecosystems: Changes in temperature and precipitation patterns can disrupt ecosystems, leading to shifts in species distribution, loss of biodiversity, and challenges to food security.

Conclusion