CAP Climate Science & Atmospheric Systems 2

Question 1

Which atmospheric layer contains the ozone layer that absorbs harmful UV radiation?

Accepted Answer

Stratosphere

Answer

The stratosphere, extending from about 12 to 50 km altitude, contains the ozone layer that absorbs most of the sun's ultraviolet radiation.

Question 2

What is the primary driver of the ocean's thermohaline circulation, often called the 'global conveyor belt'?

Accepted Answer

Differences in water temperature and salinity

Answer

Thermohaline circulation is driven by density differences caused by variations in water temperature and salinity, which move vast amounts of heat around the planet.

Question 3

Which feedback mechanism causes Arctic ice loss to accelerate warming by exposing darker ocean surfaces?

Accepted Answer

Ice-albedo feedback

Answer

The ice-albedo feedback occurs because melting sea ice exposes dark ocean water that absorbs more solar radiation than reflective ice, amplifying warming.

Question 4

The Keeling Curve, initiated at Mauna Loa in 1958, primarily tracks which atmospheric measurement?

Accepted Answer

Atmospheric CO₂ concentration

Answer

The Keeling Curve is the continuous record of atmospheric CO₂ concentrations measured at the Mauna Loa Observatory, showing both seasonal oscillations and a long-term rising trend.

Question 5

What percentage of Earth's natural greenhouse effect is attributed to water vapor?

Accepted Answer

Approximately 50–60%

Answer

Water vapor accounts for roughly 50–60% of Earth's natural greenhouse effect, making it the most abundant greenhouse gas by warming contribution.

(CAP) Certified Carbon Auditing Professional Practice Test

(CAP) Certified Carbon Auditing Professional Practice Test

CAP Climate Science & Atmospheric Systems 2