Arrhenius Theory

Definition

The Arrhenius Theory, proposed by Svante Arrhenius in 1896, explains how carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases contribute to the greenhouse effect by influencing the Earth's temperature. According to this theory, an increase in atmospheric CO2 levels leads to an increase in global temperatures due to the enhanced absorption of infrared radiation, which results from the interaction of these gases with solar energy that is re-emitted by the Earth's surface.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Arrhenius Theory was one of the first scientific explanations linking human activities, specifically fossil fuel combustion, to climate change through greenhouse gas emissions.
2. Arrhenius calculated that a doubling of CO2 concentration could lead to a temperature increase of approximately 5 to 6 degrees Celsius, highlighting the potential impact of increased emissions.
3. The theory paved the way for modern climate models that incorporate feedback loops and interactions between various components of the Earth's climate system.
4. Arrhenius' work laid the foundation for understanding how human-induced changes can disrupt the natural balance of Earth's energy budget.
5. The Arrhenius Theory remains relevant today as it underpins many climate change discussions and policies aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Review Questions

• How does the Arrhenius Theory explain the relationship between greenhouse gas concentrations and Earth's temperature?
  • The Arrhenius Theory explains that increased concentrations of greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide lead to higher global temperatures due to their ability to absorb and emit infrared radiation. As these gases accumulate in the atmosphere, they enhance the greenhouse effect by trapping more heat that would otherwise escape into space. This interaction alters the Earth’s energy budget, contributing to global warming.
• What are some implications of Arrhenius's calculations regarding CO2 levels and temperature increases on current climate policies?
  • Arrhenius's calculations suggest that even small increases in atmospheric CO2 can lead to significant temperature rises. This understanding informs current climate policies aimed at limiting carbon emissions to prevent dangerous levels of warming. Policymakers use this information to set targets for emission reductions and to promote renewable energy sources as alternatives to fossil fuels.
• Evaluate how the Arrhenius Theory has influenced contemporary climate science and public perception of climate change.
  • The Arrhenius Theory has significantly shaped contemporary climate science by providing an early framework for understanding the link between greenhouse gas emissions and global warming. Its foundational concepts are still utilized in current climate models that assess future warming scenarios. Additionally, this theory has helped raise public awareness about climate change by illustrating how human activities contribute to altering Earth’s energy balance, leading to a greater urgency for action against climate change.

Related terms

Greenhouse Effect: The process by which certain gases in Earth's atmosphere trap heat, preventing it from escaping into space and thereby warming the planet.

Solar Radiation: Energy emitted by the sun, primarily in the form of visible light and infrared radiation, which is essential for life on Earth and influences its energy balance.

Climate Sensitivity: A measure of how responsive the Earth's climate is to changes in greenhouse gas concentrations, typically expressed as the increase in global average temperature resulting from a doubling of CO2.