Chapter 56, Problem 9TYU

SCIENTIFIC INQUIRY (a) Estimate the average CO₂. concentration in 1975 and in 2012 using data provided in Figure 56.28. (b) On average, how rapidly did CO₂ concentration increase (ppm/yr) from 1975 to 2012? (c) Estimate the approximate CO₂ concentration in 2100, assuming that the C0₂ concentration continues to rise as fast as it did from 1975 to 2012. (d) Draw a graph of average C0₂ concentration from 1975 to 2012 and then use a dashed line to extend the graph to the year 2100. (e) Identify the ecological factors and human decisions that might influence the actual rise in CO₂. concentration. (e) Discuss how additional scientific data could help societies predict this value.

Figure 56.28 Increase in atmospheric carbon dioxide concentration at Mauna Loa, Hawaii, and average global temperatures. Aside from normal seasonal fluctuations, the CO₂ concentration (blue curve) increased steadily from 1958 to 2015. Though average global temperatures (red curve) fluctuated a great deal over the same period, there is a clear warming trend.