How Do Volcanic Eruptions and CFCs Influence Global Warming?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the effects of volcanic eruptions and chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) on global warming, specifically examining their roles in atmospheric changes and temperature variations.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Conceptual clarification

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore the potential impacts of volcanic eruptions and CFCs on global warming, questioning the effects of each component and discussing conflicting viewpoints regarding their contributions to greenhouse gas emissions and atmospheric chemistry.

Discussion Status

The conversation includes various interpretations of the effects of volcanic eruptions and CFCs, with some participants suggesting that volcanic eruptions may have a cooling effect due to sulfur emissions, while others assert their contribution to global warming. There is no clear consensus, but multiple perspectives are being examined.

Contextual Notes

Some participants express uncertainty about the effects of CFCs in different atmospheric layers, indicating a need for clarification on their roles in ozone depletion and greenhouse gas effects.

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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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.
 
You were right. I just got the solutions key for my homework. I missed the boat on that one.
 
BTW - Hope you will stick around the forums. I'll probably need your help again. Thanks!
 
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
 

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