Question

which of these is part of a feedback loop that results in a cooling effect on earth?
a. burning fossil fuels increases the concentration of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere.
b. more evaporation of water due to warmer temperatures causes low, thick clouds to form.
c. as snow and ice melt, the underlying surfaces absorb heat from solar radiation.
d. when permafrost melts, methane is released into the atmosphere.

Explanation:

• Option A: Burning fossil fuels increasing greenhouse gases leads to warming (not cooling) as greenhouse gases trap heat.
• Option B: Low, thick clouds formed due to more evaporation (from warmer temps) can reflect solar radiation back into space, which has a cooling effect.
• Option C: Snow and ice melt exposing surfaces that absorb heat would lead to warming (as less reflection of solar radiation).
• Option D: Permafrost melting releasing methane (a potent greenhouse gas) leads to warming.

Answer:

B. More evaporation of water due to warmer temperatures causes low, thick clouds to form.