Atmosphere Contents

1. Structure And Composition

The carbon cycle drives one of the major environmental problems facing society - 'global warming'

Carbon dioxide released into the atmosphere has caused warming and is projected to continue elevating global temperatures with uncertain results. Anthropogenic activities have changed the flux balance of CO2 in the atmosphere where increased burning of fossil fuels has released stored CO2. The removal rate, which is determined by photosynthesis converting carbon dioxide into plant material and net primary productivity, has been reduced from processes like deforestation (e.g. the Amazon Rainforest) and changes in land surface processes. However, a significant proportion of CO2 is also absorbed by the oceans.

Carbon emmisions

What causes global warming?