Final answer:
To increase green spaces in a mid-sized California city, implement small parks, community gardens, and rooftop gardens. An experiment to measure the effect of these green spaces on CO2 levels would involve baseline and periodic CO2 measurements. This experiment acknowledges that green spaces can absorb atmospheric CO2 through photosynthesis, potentially reducing carbon dioxide levels.
Step-by-step explanation:
Designing a model to increase the percentage of green spaces in a mid-sized California city encompasses several strategies. You could incorporate small parks, community gardens, and rooftop gardens into urban planning. To quantify the effect of plants on local atmospheric carbon dioxide concentrations, an experiment can be designed.
For the experiment setup, baseline CO2 levels would need to be measured using sensors placed at various locations around the downtown area. After the green spaces are established, periodic measurements would be taken at the same locations to compare against the baseline. Environmental variables such as temperature, humidity, and urban traffic should be controlled or accounted for in the analysis to ensure accurate results.
It is imperative to understand that carbon dioxide is affected by green spaces through the process of photosynthesis where plants absorb CO2 and release oxygen. Thus, an increase in plant life in an urban area can contribute to lower CO2 levels. Moreover, by analyzing data over time, one can determine the seasonal fluctuations in CO2 levels and the direct impact of the newly introduced green spaces.