Question
A student claims that the following three factors may affect the rate of global warming.
I. Increased volcanic activity
II. Increased solubility of carbon dioxide \(\left(\mathrm{CO}_2\right)\) in the ocean
III. Increased rate of deforestation
Which factors can increase the rate of global warming?
A. I and II only
B. I and III only
C. II and III only
D. I, II and III
▶️Answer/Explanation
Ans:B
The factors that can increase the rate of global warming are:
I. Increased volcanic activity: Volcanic eruptions can release large amounts of greenhouse gases, such as carbon dioxide (CO2) and sulfur dioxide (SO2), into the atmosphere. These gases can contribute to global warming.
III. Increased rate of deforestation: Deforestation leads to a reduction in the number of trees and vegetation that can absorb and store carbon dioxide. When forests are cleared, the stored carbon is released into the atmosphere, increasing the concentration of greenhouse gases, which contributes to global warming.
II. Increased solubility of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the ocean: This factor does not directly increase the rate of global warming. In fact, the increased solubility of CO2 in the ocean can have a cooling effect on the planet by absorbing excess CO2 from the atmosphere. While it may mitigate global warming to some extent, it is not a factor that directly increases the rate of global warming.
So, the correct answer is not B (I and III only) but:
D. I, II, and III
All three factors can have an impact on the rate of global warming, with factors I and III contributing to warming and factor II having a potential mitigating effect.