which of the following is a consequence of using fossil fuels as an energy resource?
A.decreased carbon dioxide levels
B.increased biodiversity
C.increased acid rain
D.decreased ecosystem disruption
increased acid rain. Increased CO2 plus water in the air makes acid rain.
The consequence of using fossil fuels as an energy resource that relates to the given options is increased acid rain. To understand why this is the case, let's explore each option:
A. Decreased carbon dioxide levels: Fossil fuels, such as coal, oil, and natural gas, release significant amounts of carbon dioxide (CO2) when burned. Therefore, using fossil fuels as an energy resource leads to increased carbon dioxide levels, not decreased levels.
B. Increased biodiversity: This is not a direct consequence of using fossil fuels. Fossil fuel consumption does contribute to environmental degradation and climate change, which can indirectly impact biodiversity. For example, habitat destruction and alteration due to resource extraction or climate change can negatively affect some species. However, the direct effect of using fossil fuels is not an increase in biodiversity.
C. Increased acid rain: Fossil fuels contain impurities, such as sulfur, that are released as pollutants when burned. These pollutants, particularly sulfur dioxide (SO2) and nitrogen oxides (NOx), react with atmospheric water vapor to form sulfuric acid and nitric acid, respectively. These acidic compounds then mix with precipitation, resulting in acid rain. Therefore, the use of fossil fuels as an energy resource is associated with increased acid rain.
D. Decreased ecosystem disruption: Fossil fuel extraction and combustion can lead to various forms of ecosystem disruption. For example, mining for coal or oil extraction can cause habitat destruction and the displacement of wildlife. Additionally, the burning of fossil fuels contributes to climate change and air pollution, both of which can negatively impact ecosystems. Therefore, using fossil fuels does not result in decreased ecosystem disruption.
In summary, the consequence of using fossil fuels as an energy resource that is directly related to the options given is increased acid rain (Option C).