Exploring the Impact of Volcanic Eruptions, CFCs on Global Warming

In summary, volcanic eruptions can contribute to global warming by releasing large amounts of CO2 into the atmosphere. However, the sulfur emitted during an eruption can also have a cooling effect by blocking the sun's rays. CFCs in the troposphere have no effect on global warming, but in the stratosphere, they can contribute to both ozone depletion and the greenhouse effect, leading to warmer temperatures. Overall, both volcanic eruptions and CFCs can play a role in global warming, but their effects are not straightforward and can vary depending on the specific circumstances.
  • #1
Math Is Hard
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Just a question I am a little stuck on. I missed last week's chem lecture:

What effect would each of these changes have on global warming?

a) volcanic eruptions
b) CFCs in the troposphere
c) CFCs in the stratosphere

Here's what I think so far..

a) Volcanic eruption release large amounts of CO2 into the atmosphere contributing to the greenhouse effect and increasing global warming.

b) no effect?

c) I know that CFCs in the stratosphere deplete the O3 that protects us from UV radiation, but does this have any effect on global warming?

Thanks for your help. :smile:

-MIH
 
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  • #2
I am not sure about b and c but I know that a volcanic eruption would have the reverse effect of global warming because it emits sulfur which reacts with water vapor to form sulfur dioxide which then blocks the suns rays from reaching the Earth and thus cools the planet. Dont think though that just because volcanoes have the reverse effect of global warming that global warming is not a problem. Volcanoes also release Co2 contributing to the grrenhouse effect the effect of the cooling is simply more significant.
 
  • #3
You were right. I just got the solutions key for my homework. I missed the boat on that one.
 
  • #4
BTW - Hope you will stick around the forums. I'll probably need your help again. Thanks!
 
  • #5
a) global temperature become lower
b) the Earth warms up due to CFCs is a greenhouse gas
c) CFCs lead to ozone depletion and hence more ultraviolet rays come in so it is warmer CFCs is also a greenhouse gas
 

1. What is the impact of volcanic eruptions on global warming?

Volcanic eruptions release large amounts of sulfur dioxide into the atmosphere, which can form sulfuric acid aerosols. These aerosols reflect sunlight back into space, causing a temporary cooling effect on the Earth's surface. However, the release of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases during a volcanic eruption also contributes to the overall warming of the planet.

2. How do CFCs contribute to global warming?

CFCs, or chlorofluorocarbons, are man-made chemicals that were commonly used in refrigeration, air conditioning, and aerosol sprays. When released into the atmosphere, they can break down and release chlorine molecules that then deplete the ozone layer. This depletion of the ozone layer allows more harmful UV radiation to reach the Earth's surface, contributing to global warming.

3. Are volcanic eruptions or CFCs a bigger contributor to global warming?

It is difficult to determine which one is a bigger contributor to global warming as they both play different roles. Volcanic eruptions have a more immediate and short-term cooling effect due to the release of sulfur dioxide, but the long-term emissions of CFCs have a more significant impact on the Earth's temperature due to their ability to trap heat in the atmosphere.

4. Can we prevent volcanic eruptions or CFC emissions to reduce global warming?

While we cannot prevent natural volcanic eruptions, we can reduce our use of CFCs by using alternative chemicals and technologies. In 1987, the Montreal Protocol was signed, which aimed to phase out the production and consumption of ozone-depleting substances, including CFCs. This has led to a decrease in the atmospheric concentration of CFCs, but they still contribute to global warming.

5. Will the impact of volcanic eruptions and CFCs on global warming continue to increase?

It is difficult to predict the exact impact of volcanic eruptions and CFCs on global warming in the future. However, with the global efforts to reduce CFC emissions, it is expected that their contribution to global warming will decrease over time. On the other hand, the frequency and magnitude of volcanic eruptions may also change due to natural variations in the Earth's climate, which could affect their impact on global warming.

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