What is the role of density in the changes to the earth's atmosphere over time?
What will be an ideal response?
Density plays several roles in the evolution of the earth's atmosphere. First, outgassing or the migration of material inside the earth is driven by density. Light molecules move toward the surface and heavy molecules move toward the core of the earth when possible. As a result, gases composed of elements that are low density compared to iron and nickel, are commonly released into the atmosphere during volcanic eruptions. These gases will then enter into chemical reactions or become part of the atmospheric layers depending on their chemical characteristics and density. The lightest molecules will gradually be lost to space because the earth's gravity is not strong enough to hold them. Thus helium, for example, is continuously lost to space because it is chemically inert and low density. In contrast, hydrogen and oxygen react to form water which contributes to keeping the light element, hydrogen, on earth. Oxygen and nitrogen molecules remain as gases at atmospheric temperatures and help to form our atmosphere.
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According to the Stefan-Boltzmann law, which of the following statements expresses the radiative energy emitted by one square metre of an object?
A. It is equal to a constant multiplied by its temperature, raised to the negative third power. B. It is equal to a constant multiplied by its temperature, raised to the second power. C. It is equal to a constant multiplied by its temperature, raised to the fourth power. D. It is equal to a constant multiplied by its temperature, raised to the tenth power.
Evaporation is a cooling process, and condensation is
A. a cooling process also. B. a warming process. C. neither a warming nor cooling process.
Plate tectonics
A) moves continents at the rate of about 1 meter per day. B) is the cause of most short-term climate changes. C) cannot explain why today's equatorial regions can have evidence of past glaciation. D) can alter the climates of continents by moving them north or south. E) all of the above
Which of the following is the best example of an unsustainable practice?
A. Driving your new truck to work. B. Using solar power to cook your food and heat your house. C. Growing food in your backyard using organic practices. D. Riding your bike to class or work.