Question

When a large meteor strikes Earth, environmental changes may result as dust particles scatter throughout the atmosphere. Which BEST describes how an increase in atmospheric particles would affect temperatures on the surface of Earth?

a) It would lead to a significant increase in temperatures.
b) It would have no effect on temperatures.
c) It would lead to a significant decrease in temperatures.
d) It would cause erratic and unpredictable temperature changes.

Answer 1

c) It would lead to a significant decrease in temperatures.

Answer 2

An increase in atmospheric dust particles from a large meteor strike would lead to a significant decrease in Earth's surface temperatures, similar to a volcanic winter.

So, the correct answer is C.

Step-by-step explanation:

When a large meteor strikes Earth, the resulting increase in atmospheric particles would affect surface temperatures primarily by blocking sunlight. These dust particles would scatter and absorb solar radiation, leading to a significant decrease in temperatures on the surface of Earth, which is best described by option c).
The phenomenon is similar to a volcanic winter, where volcanic ash clouds can cool global temperatures. The short-term climatic consequence of such an event, described as an impact winter, can lead to reduced sunlight reaching the surface, colder weather, and disruption of agricultural patterns due to the lack of sunlight affecting photosynthesis.

So, the correct answer is C.