Question

What is meant by a “carbon footprint”? A. the pollution that a household or business creates B. the pollution caused by fossil fuels C. the total carbon emissions of a household or business D. the amount of carbohydrates a person consumes

Short answer

C. the total carbon emissions of a household or business.

Step-by-step solution

Understand the Term 'Carbon Footprint'

A 'carbon footprint' is a term that describes the total amount of greenhouse gases, primarily carbon dioxide (CO2), that are emitted directly or indirectly by human activities. This includes activities such as driving a car, using electricity, or any other process that releases CO2 into the atmosphere.

Identify the Key Concept

The main concept to focus on is the total emission of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases. A carbon footprint measures these emissions in terms of CO2 equivalents, reflecting their impact on global warming.

Evaluate the Options

Now, let's examine each option carefully:A: 'the pollution that a household or business creates' - This is too general and does not specify carbon emissions.B: 'the pollution caused by fossil fuels' - While fossil fuels do contribute to carbon footprints, this option is too narrow as it excludes other sources of carbon emissions.C: 'the total carbon emissions of a household or business' - This option directly defines a carbon footprint as it focuses on the total carbon emissions linked to a specific entity.D: 'the amount of carbohydrates a person consumes' - This option is unrelated to carbon footprints.

Choose the Correct Option

Based on the above evaluation, the correct answer is C: 'the total carbon emissions of a household or business'. This definition aligns perfectly with the concept of a carbon footprint.

Key concepts

greenhouse gases

Greenhouse gases are essential contributors to the atmosphere's heat-trapping ability. These gases, such as carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), and nitrous oxide (N2O), trap heat within the atmosphere, causing the Earth's temperature to rise.
The primary sources of greenhouse gases include:

• Burning fossil fuels like coal, oil, and natural gas for energy
• Deforestation, which reduces the number of trees that absorb CO2
• Industrial processes and agricultural practices

This greenhouse effect is natural and necessary for life on Earth, as it keeps our planet warm enough to support life. However, human activities have significantly increased the concentration of these gases, leading to more heat being trapped and contributing to global warming.

carbon dioxide emissions

Carbon dioxide emissions are a major component of greenhouse gases. CO2 is released into the atmosphere through various activities, mainly from burning fossil fuels (coal, oil, and natural gas) for energy and transportation.
Other significant sources include industrial processes and deforestation. When forests are cut down, the carbon stored in trees is released into the atmosphere, increasing CO2 levels.
Here are a few key points about carbon dioxide emissions:

• CO2 has a long atmospheric lifetime, remaining in the atmosphere for hundreds of years
• It has a significant impact on the greenhouse effect, making it a critical target for climate change mitigation
• Reducing CO2 emissions can be achieved through renewable energy sources, energy efficiency, and reforestation efforts

It is important to address CO2 emissions to combat climate change effectively.

global warming impact

Global warming refers to the gradual increase in Earth's average surface temperature due to higher concentrations of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere.
The impact of global warming is far-reaching and includes:

• More frequent and severe weather events, such as hurricanes, heatwaves, and heavy rainfall
• Rising sea levels due to the melting of polar ice caps and glaciers
• Disruption of ecosystems and loss of biodiversity
• Negative effects on agriculture, with changes in growing seasons and reduced crop yields

The rising temperatures also impact human health by increasing the prevalence of heat-related illnesses and diseases spread by insects.

Addressing global warming requires reducing greenhouse gas emissions and implementing adaptation strategies to mitigate its effects.