Earth's Atmosphere & CO2
Science · Matter & Materials · conceptual
Describe the composition of Earth's atmosphere (mainly nitrogen and oxygen, with small amounts of CO₂ and other gases), explain how human activity increases CO₂, and describe the impact on global climate
What mastery looks like
- States the approximate percentages of nitrogen, oxygen, CO₂, and argon in the atmosphere
- Explains how burning fossil fuels and deforestation increase atmospheric CO₂
- Describes the greenhouse effect and how it leads to climate change
- Discusses one specific consequence of climate change (e.g. rising sea levels, extreme weather)
Check your understanding
If Earth's Atmosphere & CO2 was asked why scientists are worried about CO₂ levels rising, could they explain what CO₂ does in the atmosphere, why human activities produce more of it, and what effects it's having on the planet?
Prerequisites
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