Question

Which of the following natural forces is responsible for the release of carbon dioxide and other atmospheric gases?

a. the Milankovitch cycles

b. volcanoes

c. solar intensity

d. burning of fossil fuels

Short answer

The Correct Answer is Option (b)

Volcanoes

Step-by-step solution

Introduction

Climate change, for example, has an impact on all biomes and, as a result, shapes their environment. Over the last sixty years, climate experts have seen a series of dramatic alterations that have gradually become more obvious. Worldwide climate change refers to shifts in global weather patterns, such as a rise in global temperature, caused primarily by growing carbon dioxide levels in the atmosphere.

Reasons for the Incorrect Options

• Milankovitch cycles describe the cumulative impact of changes in the Earth's movements on its climate over thousands of years. It doesn't emit carbon dioxide or other greenhouse gases into the atmosphere.
• The sun's intensity varies depending on where you are. It has nothing to do with the atmospheric emissions of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases.
• Fossil fuels are created when plants and animals decay. These fuels, which contain carbon and hydrogen and are found in the Earth's crust, can be burned to generate energy. Coal, oil, and natural gas are examples of fossil fuels.
• Massive amounts of carbon dioxide, a greenhouse gas, are emitted into the atmosphere when fossil fuels are burned.
• Other gases in the atmosphere are not released.

Reason for the Correct Option

Dissolved gases in magma provide the driving force that produces most volcanic eruptions. Water vapour is by far the most abundant volcanic gas, yet it is completely safe. Volcanoes can, however, produce substantial volumes of carbon dioxide, sulphur dioxide, hydrogen sulfide, and hydrogen halides. These gases are all potentially dangerous to people, animals, crops, and property depending on their concentrations.