Final answer:
Methane (CH4) is the primary greenhouse gas of concern in landfills and its production can be predicted using both phylogenetic and non-phylogenetic approaches, which include direct experimental measurements. Therefore, correct options are b and c respectively.
Step-by-step explanation:
The main greenhouse gas of concern in landfills is methane (CH4). Methane is produced when bacteria break down organic matter under anaerobic conditions. This gas can be captured and used to produce heat or electricity, potentially leading to a net reduction in CO2 emissions.
In landfills, the anaerobic decomposition of waste as it gets buried under layers of trash and soil results in significant CH4 emissions. Methane is also a component of natural gas and is emitted from activities like natural gas and petroleum mining.
To predict methane production from landfill samples, both phylogenetic approaches, which look at the genetic relatedness and potential metabolic pathways of microbes, and non-phylogenetic approaches, which involve direct measurements and empirical models, can be used.
Experimental measurements are a key component of either approach and provide direct data on gas production rates.