The main cause of the increase in the amount of CO2 in Earth's atmosphere over the past 150 years is a. increased worldwide primary production. b. increased worldwide standing crop. c. an increase in the amount of infrared radiation absorbed by the atmosphere. d. the burning of larger amounts of wood and fossil fuels.

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the question. The question is asking about the main cause of the increase in the amount of CO2 in Earth's atmosphere over the past 150 years.
2. Step 2: Review each of the answer choices. Option a suggests that increased worldwide primary production is the cause. Primary production refers to the creation of organic compounds from carbon dioxide through photosynthesis, which actually removes CO2 from the atmosphere. So, this option is incorrect.
3. Step 3: Option b suggests that increased worldwide standing crop is the cause. Standing crop refers to the total biomass of plants at a given time. This also involves photosynthesis, which removes CO2 from the atmosphere. So, this option is also incorrect.
4. Step 4: Option c suggests that an increase in the amount of infrared radiation absorbed by the atmosphere is the cause. While it's true that CO2 absorbs infrared radiation, leading to the greenhouse effect and global warming, this is a result of increased CO2, not a cause. So, this option is incorrect.
5. Step 5: Option d suggests that the burning of larger amounts of wood and fossil fuels is the cause. Burning wood and fossil fuels releases CO2 into the atmosphere. This has indeed increased over the past 150 years due to industrialization and deforestation. So, this option is correct.

Key Concepts

Carbon Dioxide (CO2) and Climate Change

Carbon dioxide is a greenhouse gas that traps heat in the atmosphere, contributing to global warming. Its concentration has significantly increased due to human activities, particularly since the Industrial Revolution. Understanding the role of CO2 in climate change is essential for analyzing its sources and impacts on the environment.

Fossil Fuels and Combustion

Fossil fuels, such as coal, oil, and natural gas, are carbon-rich energy sources formed from ancient organic matter. The combustion of these fuels for energy releases significant amounts of CO2 into the atmosphere. This process is a primary driver of the increase in atmospheric CO2 levels, making it crucial to understand in the context of climate change.

Deforestation and Land Use Changes

Deforestation and changes in land use contribute to increased CO2 levels by reducing the number of trees that can absorb CO2 through photosynthesis. When forests are cleared for agriculture or urban development, not only is this carbon sink diminished, but the carbon stored in trees is also released into the atmosphere, exacerbating climate change.