Atmospheric Emission: Climate Change, CO2 & Quantum Chemistry

In summary, the conversation discusses the topic of climate change and its potential causes. The friend, a quantum chemist, agrees that climate change is a problem and that CO2 is the primary issue due to ocean acidification. However, he believes that there is no credible research showing that atmospheric CO2 re-emits radiation to the planet. He argues that the intersection of IR flux and distance between CO2 atoms does not allow for significant interaction and that the increased energy transferred to CO2 would heat the upper levels of the atmosphere, which is not the case. The speaker mentions reading information online that suggests incoming radiation cannot be accounted for by solar radiation alone and asks for any additional resources that could support their argument. The friend also believes that water in
  • #1
atlstroke
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A friend is a quantum chemist. He is in agreement that climate change is bad (he feels the primary problems with CO2 is ocean acidification).

Anyway he states there is no credible research showing that atmospheric CO2 re-emits radiation to the planet. His belief is that the intersection of IR flux and distance between CO2 atoms does not allow for significant interaction. He also is of the opinion that the increased energy transferred to the CO2 would heat the atmosphere more at the upper levels which is not the case.

So I have read some information online and I get the impression that the measurement of incoming radiation has too much long wavelength radiation to be accounted for by solar radiation without emission from CO2. Any comment on this ?

He is also of the opinion that the concentration of water in the air has a far greater greenhouse effect and overwhelms any produced by CO2.

Can anyone point me to information that would be informative to someone who calculates orbital structures for a living? Cant denie I would like to win the argument, but its also good to have solid reasoning behind your beliefs.

Thanks
 
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  • #2
Currently, global warming is a banned topic at this site. This thread is closed.

That said, your friend should read the scientific literature rather than goofy web sites.
 
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1. What is atmospheric emission and how does it contribute to climate change?

Atmospheric emission refers to the release of gases and particles into the Earth's atmosphere. These emissions can come from both natural sources, such as volcanic eruptions, and human activities, such as burning fossil fuels. The release of certain gases, such as carbon dioxide (CO2), into the atmosphere contributes to climate change by trapping heat and causing the Earth's temperature to rise.

2. What is the role of CO2 in climate change?

CO2 is a greenhouse gas that is released into the atmosphere through human activities like burning fossil fuels. It acts like a blanket, trapping heat and preventing it from escaping into space. As the levels of CO2 in the atmosphere increase, the Earth's temperature also rises, causing changes in weather patterns and other effects associated with climate change.

3. What is the connection between quantum chemistry and atmospheric emission?

Quantum chemistry is the study of the behavior and properties of atoms and molecules at the quantum level. It plays a crucial role in understanding the complex interactions between atmospheric gases and their effects on climate change. By using quantum chemistry principles, scientists can better understand the behavior of greenhouse gases like CO2 and their impact on the Earth's climate.

4. How do scientists measure and track atmospheric emissions?

Scientists use a variety of methods to measure and track atmospheric emissions. This includes satellite observations, ground-based measurements, and computer models. These methods allow scientists to monitor changes in the concentration of gases like CO2 in the atmosphere and track their sources and sinks over time.

5. What are some potential solutions to reduce atmospheric emissions?

There are various solutions that can help reduce atmospheric emissions and mitigate the effects of climate change. These include transitioning to renewable energy sources, improving energy efficiency, implementing carbon capture and storage technologies, and promoting sustainable land use practices. Additionally, individuals can reduce their own carbon footprint by making small changes in their daily lives, such as using public transportation or reducing meat consumption.

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