Solar radiation travels through the earth's atmosphere and warms the planet's surface. Greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide in the earth's atmosphere reabsorb the heat and warm the planet. The amounts of greenhouse gases have been increasing over the past century, causing the earth's surface temperature to increase. This gradual temperature change is thought to have many negative environmental consequences.
Select which of these might be a POSITIVE effect of the increase in carbon dioxide levels?
Responses
A rise in sea levelsrise in sea levels
B decrease in plant growthdecrease in plant growth
C increase in plant growthincrease in plant growth
D increased melting of ice caps
The positive effect of the increase in carbon dioxide levels is an increase in plant growth (C).
The positive effect of the increase in carbon dioxide levels is an increase in plant growth. This is because carbon dioxide is an essential component for photosynthesis, the process by which plants convert sunlight into energy. With higher levels of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere, plants can more efficiently carry out photosynthesis, leading to enhanced growth and productivity. To determine the correct answer, you can understand the role of carbon dioxide in photosynthesis and its impact on plant growth.
