Question

question 10 of 25
which of these has a warming effect on earth?

a. when permafrost melts, methane is released into the atmosphere.
b. earths oceans absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.
c. more evaporation of water due to warmer temperatures causes low, thick clouds to form.
d. rising carbon dioxide levels spur plant growth, causing increased carbon dioxide absorption.

Explanation:

• Methane (\(CH_4\)) is a potent greenhouse gas. When permafrost melts and releases methane into the atmosphere, it traps more heat, contributing to the warming of the Earth.
• Option B: Oceans absorbing \(CO_2\) can have a cooling - like effect as \(CO_2\) is a greenhouse gas, and its removal from the atmosphere (in part) reduces the greenhouse effect.
• Option C: Low, thick clouds can reflect more solar radiation back into space, having a cooling - like influence.
• Option D: Increased plant growth due to higher \(CO_2\) levels (a process called carbon sequestration) can take up more \(CO_2\) from the atmosphere, which is a negative feedback (cooling - like) mechanism.

Answer:

A. When permafrost melts, methane is released into the atmosphere.