Why is an excess of CO2 in the atmosphere considered undesirable. Class 9

Why is an excess of CO₂ in the atmosphere considered undesirable. Class 9

Question 1.

Why is an excess of CO₂ in the atmosphere considered undesirable even though it is required by plants? Class 9

Answer:

CO₂ is necessary because:

1. Plants use CO₂ for photosynthesis to produce food and oxygen.
2. A moderate amount of CO₂ acts as a greenhouse gas, keeping the Earth warm enough to support life.

But excess CO₂ is undesirable because:

(a) Intensified Greenhouse Effect: Excess CO₂ traps more heat radiating from the Earth’s surface, causing global warming.

(b) Melting of Glaciers: Rising temperatures melt Himalayan glaciers and polar ice, raising sea levels and threatening coastal cities like Mumbai and Chennai.

(c) Extreme Weather: More CO₂ leads to intense monsoons, droughts and floods, disrupting agriculture and water supply.

(d) Ocean Acidification: Excess CO₂ absorbed by oceans makes seawater more acidic, threatening coral reefs and marine life.

(e) Habitat Loss: Global warming destroys ecosystems, causing biodiversity loss.