Final answer:
The historic event linked to the increase in atmospheric carbon dioxide is the Industrial Revolution. This era, starting around 1750, saw a surge in the burning of fossil fuels for energy, contributing to the current levels of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere and climate change.
Step-by-step explanation:
The increase in the amount of carbon dioxide in the air can be directly linked to the Industrial Revolution. Beginning around 1750, the Industrial Revolution marked a significant change in human society, leading to advances in agriculture and the invention of new technologies. These technologies, which included the steam engine and later the automobile, were largely powered by the burning of fossil fuels such as coal and petroleum. This resulted in the release of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere, contributing to the greenhouse effect and global climate change.
Over time, human activities have increased the release of carbon compounds, affecting the environment and climate. Measurements of isotopic signatures have confirmed that the added CO₂ is primarily from the burning of fossil fuels. Atmospheric carbon dioxide levels have risen from the pre-industrial level of 280 parts per million by volume to 400 parts per million in 2013, demonstrating a significant human impact on global conditions.