Final answer:
Both biomass and fossil fuels release carbon dioxide when burned, but biomass can also emit hydrocarbons and nitrogen oxides due to its varied chemical composition. Fossil fuels consist mainly of carbon and hydrogen, leading to CO₂ and water as primary combustion products. The excessive CO₂ from fossil fuels contributes to the greenhouse effect and global climate change.
Step-by-step explanation:
Both biomass and fossil fuels release carbon dioxide (CO₂) when burned, but the chemical composition of biomass can also lead to the release of hydrocarbons and nitrogen oxides (NOx) during combustion. This is due to the presence of elements like nitrogen in the biomass that are not primarily found in fossil fuels. Fossil fuels, such as coal and oil, primarily consist of carbon and hydrogen, and when combusted, release mostly CO₂ and water (H₂O). The release of carbon from the combustion of fossil fuels is particularly concerning as it adds CO₂ to the atmosphere more rapidly than it can be absorbed by natural processes such as photosynthesis, contributing to the greenhouse effect and global climate change.
Burning fossil fuels disrupts the carbon cycle by injecting large amounts of CO₂ into the atmosphere, where it acts as a greenhouse gas, trapping heat and contributing to rising global temperatures. Meanwhile, biomass combustion can influence air quality since it can emit particulates, CO₂, hydrocarbons, and NOx, potentially impacting human health and the environment. It is crucial to evaluate the full life-cycle impact of different energy sources to assess their sustainability and environmental impacts comprehensively.