Question

Which of these can people do in order to help reduce global warming? A) burn coal C) conserve energy B) remove trees D) produce methane

Short answer

Option C: Conserve energy to help reduce global warming.

Step-by-step solution

Understanding Global Warming

Global warming is primarily caused by the increase of greenhouse gases, such as carbon dioxide and methane, in the Earth's atmosphere. These gases trap heat, leading to a rise in global temperatures. Therefore, actions that reduce these emissions or absorb carbon dioxide can help mitigate global warming.

Analyzing Each Option

Evaluate each option based on its impact on greenhouse gases: A) Burning coal releases large amounts of carbon dioxide, increasing global warming. B) Removing trees decreases the planet's capacity to absorb carbon dioxide, exacerbating global warming. C) Conserving energy reduces the demand for fossil fuels, which lowers carbon emissions. D) Producing methane, another potent greenhouse gas, contributes to global warming.

Identifying the Beneficial Action

Among the given options, conserving energy reduces carbon emissions by decreasing the burning of fossil fuels. This is a positive action towards mitigating global warming.

Key concepts

Greenhouse Gases

Greenhouse gases play a crucial role in global warming. These gases, such as carbon dioxide (CO2) and methane (CH4), naturally exist in our atmosphere and are essential for trapping heat. This process keeps our planet warm enough to support life. However, human activities, like burning fossil fuels and deforestation, increase the concentration of these gases in the atmosphere. As greenhouse gas levels rise, more heat gets trapped, leading to a gradual increase in Earth's average temperature, known as global warming. This warming can cause significant environmental issues, such as melting ice caps, rising sea levels, and extreme weather conditions.

Carbon Emissions

Carbon emissions refer to the release of carbon, primarily in the form of carbon dioxide, into the atmosphere. These emissions are mostly generated by burning fossil fuels, such as coal, oil, and natural gas. Transportation, industrial processes, and energy production are significant contributors to carbon emissions. The excessive presence of carbon dioxide, a major greenhouse gas, enhances the greenhouse effect, thus driving global warming. To combat this, reducing carbon emissions is vital. This can be achieved through various measures, like using renewable energy sources, improving energy efficiency, and promoting public transport to cut down on individual car usage.

Energy Conservation

Energy conservation is an effective strategy in reducing global warming. By conserving energy, we lower the demand for energy production, which often relies on burning fossil fuels. This, in turn, decreases the level of carbon emissions. There are many simple ways individuals can conserve energy:

• Turning off lights and electronic devices when not in use
• Using energy-efficient appliances
• Reducing heating and cooling requirements in homes
• Driving less or carpooling

Through these actions, people can significantly reduce their carbon footprint and contribute to a healthier planet.

Fossil Fuels

Fossil fuels, including coal, oil, and natural gas, are energy sources formed from the remains of ancient plants and animals. These fuels are primarily used to generate electricity, power vehicles, and provide heat. Although efficient in energy production, burning fossil fuels is the largest source of carbon emissions. This is because the process releases carbon dioxide, a primary greenhouse gas. Gradually transitioning to cleaner energy sources, such as solar, wind, and hydroelectric power, can reduce our reliance on fossil fuels. This transition is crucial for diminishing the adverse impacts of global warming and achieving sustainable energy use for the future.