Drivers that accentuate the greenhouse effect Which of the following human activities intensify the greenhouse effect and thereby contribute to global warming?

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: all (a), (b) and (c).

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
The greenhouse effect is a natural phenomenon, but human activities have strengthened it by increasing atmospheric greenhouse gases. Recognizing the broad categories of contributing actions is fundamental to environmental engineering and policy.



Given Data / Assumptions:

  • We evaluate three activity classes: land-use change, industrialization, and transportation.
  • We seek the combination that intensifies greenhouse forcing.


Concept / Approach:
Deforestation reduces carbon sinks and often emits CO₂ via biomass burning and decay. Rapid industrialization generally increases fossil fuel consumption, emitting CO₂ and other greenhouse gases. Transportation growth raises fuel combustion emissions (CO₂, N₂O), and methane can rise from associated supply chains. Together, they elevate atmospheric greenhouse gas concentrations and radiative forcing.



Step-by-Step Solution:

Link deforestation → reduced CO₂ uptake + emissions from land clearing.Link industrialization → increased energy demand → fossil fuel combustion → CO₂.Link transportation → mobile-source CO₂ and other GHGs.All three intensify the greenhouse effect; select the combined option.


Verification / Alternative check:
Emission inventories attribute large shares of global CO₂ to power/industry and transport; land use change is also a major contributor historically and regionally.



Why Other Options Are Wrong:

Each individual option is a contributor, but the comprehensive effect arises from all activities together.


Common Pitfalls:
Confusing ozone layer issues with greenhouse forcing; while both are atmospheric topics, their mechanisms and key gases differ.



Final Answer:
all (a), (b) and (c).

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