Final answer:
The atmospheric temperature will increase due to the enhanced greenhouse effect from rising carbon dioxide levels. This increase, shown by historical patterns and predictions, will lead to global warming with serious consequences for our planet's climate and biodiversity.
Step-by-step explanation:
The atmospheric temperature will increase due to the enhanced greenhouse effect caused by higher concentrations of carbon dioxide (CO₂). As CO₂ levels rise, the altitude at which the atmosphere can emit radiation to space also rises, leading to a reduction in the rate of emission of radiation from the higher levels since temperature decreases with altitude. To compensate and maintain incoming and outgoing radiation balance, the surface temperature will have to warm further, resulting in global warming. This is due to the logarithmic relationship between atmospheric CO₂ levels and temperature increase. Moreover, a warmer surface increases water vapor in the atmosphere, which further exacerbates the temperature rise.
Direct evidence has shown a historical pattern correlating rises in atmospheric CO₂ to rises in global temperature. Since 1950, the atmospheric concentration of carbon dioxide has increased dramatically and so has the average global temperature. Predictions state that if unchecked, the temperature could increase by an additional 1.1°C to 6.4°C in the 21st century, affecting weather patterns, agricultural outputs, and ecosystems globally.
Ultimately, if the trend of increasing atmospheric carbon dioxide continues without intervention, the consequences for the planet and humanity will be severe. Measures to reduce carbon emissions from sources such as cars and power plants are essential to mitigate the impacts of climate change.