Question

Which of the following types of releases of greenhouse gases from an anthropogenic source is shown in the diagram?

A. Volcanic eruptions emitting CO₂ into the atmosphere
B. Release of VOCsfrom tree species and motor vehicles into the atmosphere
C. Industrial and agricultural practices releasing CH₄ into the atmosphere
D. Evaporation of surface water increasing H₂O vapor in the atmosphere

Answer 1

The diagram shows industrial and agricultural practices releasing CH₄ into the atmosphere. So the answer is C. Industrial and agricultural practices releasing CH₄ into the atmosphere.

In the industrial sector, methane is released during the production and transport of coal, natural gas, and oil. It is also emitted from landfills, wastewater treatment plants, and agricultural activities, such as the production of livestock feed and the decomposition of organic waste.

Methane is a potent greenhouse gas with a global warming potential (GWP) of 28-36 times that of carbon dioxide over a 100-year period. This means that methane is significantly more effective at trapping heat in the atmosphere than carbon dioxide. The agricultural sector is also a major source of methane emissions.