1-5: Carbon Cycle, Methane

Importance of this Unit to the Course

Carbon dioxide goes in and out of the atmosphere like water running into a leaky bathtub. In this in-and-out process (cycle) a certain amount remains constant in the "tub". But for CO₂, the faucet has been opened wider with little change in leakage out. By understanding the sources and rates of CO₂ input and output, we can gain an appreciation for the rate of build-up of CO₂. We will then be able to discuss choices and impacts of choices for doing something about it in Blocks 2 and 3.

Objectives

To understand the role of carbon compounds in the earth's atmosphere and how they are linked to biosphere processes.
To examine changes in atmospheric carbon compounds and how humans have contributed to these changes.

Preparation for Discussion (You must complete this section before class.)

Read the summary information. (Print text for offline review; images only.)

Take the Quiz over the summary information. (see your portfolio)

Review additional reading material (this material is not covered in the quiz, but offers more ideas for online discussion)

Discussion (online / face-to-face) (See your portfolio for due dates and times)

A major component of the course is participation in the online dialog. The following types of comments are required:

Social Comments
Knowledge-building Comments
Ethical Comments

The following may be used as discussion starters for the online dialog:

Unit Problem to Ponder:

Does the purchase and consumption of carbonated beverages (e.g., Coke, Pepsi) contribute to increased atmospheric CO₂?
Unit exam questions from previous years
Unit discussions from previous years, available from the current online discussion

Additional Reading