What has increased the concentration of Carbon Dioxide (CO2) in the atmosphere?

Question

BlackTom AI · Accepted Answer

The question asks why CO2 concentration in the atmosphere has increased. 
Option 1: 'Natural rises in water vapour and clouds have led to an increase in CFCs in the atmosphere' This statement is inaccurate for two reasons. First, natural variations in water vapor and clouds influence climate forcing but do not cause CFCs to increase; CFCs are a distinct class of anthropogenic chemical compounds released by human activities. Second, CFCs are not a direct result of water vapor or clouds; their atmospheric increase is tied to industrial emissions and usage.
Option 2: 'Anthropogenic emissions have rapidly increased concentration in the atmosphere' This option correctly identifies human-caused emissions (fossil fuel combustion, cement production, deforestation, industrial processes) as the primary driver raising atmospheric CO2 concentrations. The greenhouse gas growth trend over the industrial era is well documented and aligns with rising fossil fuel use and related activities.
Option 3: 'Extreme weather patterns have led to increased concentrations in the atmosphere' While extreme weather can be a consequence of higher CO2 levels and climate change, it is not the direct cause of why CO2 concentration has increased. Weather patterns influence distribution and natural sinks but do not primarily drive the accumulation of CO2 in the atmosphere.
In summary, the most accurate explanation is that human activities—anthropogenic emissions—are responsible for the rising CO2 levels, rather than natural changes in water vapor, clouds, or extreme weather patterns alone.

25847 Sustainable Finance - Spring 2025 Quiz 4: Topic 4 - Role of Environmental Modelling

What has increased the concentration of Carbon Dioxide (CO2) in the atmosphere?

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