Chapter 1
English Language Arts
Course: Fundamental Subjects Content Knowledge 5511
Subject: Fundamental Subjects Content Knowledge5511
Chapter: Science
1. Demonstrate understanding of the impact of science and technology on the environment and human affairs, including enhanced greenhouse effect, waste disposal, and air and water pollution
Enhanced greenhouse effect
The natural greenhouse effect is essential for life, maintaining Earth’s average temperature around 15°C. Without it, Earth would be about -18°C, too cold for most life forms. Human activities have intensified this natural process. Since the Industrial Revolution, atmospheric CO₂ concentrations have risen from about 280 ppm (parts per million) to over 420 ppm today, the highest level in hundreds of thousands of years.
- Key contributors:
Burning fossil fuels for electricity, heating, and transportation (oil, coal, natural gas).
Agriculture, especially methane from rice paddies and livestock digestion.
Deforestation, which reduces natural carbon sinks and alters land albedo (reflectivity).