Consider the following statements: Increased concentration of Carbo...
Explanation:
The correct answer is option D, which states that only statement 3 is correct. Let's analyze each statement to understand why.
Statement 1: Increased concentration of Carbon dioxide in the atmosphere causes acid rain.
This statement is incorrect. Acid rain is primarily caused by emissions of sulfur dioxide (SO2) and nitrogen oxides (NOx) reacting with water, oxygen, and other chemicals in the atmosphere to form various acidic compounds. Carbon dioxide (CO2) does not directly contribute to the formation of acid rain. It is a greenhouse gas that contributes to climate change but does not have a direct impact on acid rain formation.
Statement 2: Hydro Fluoro Carbons are potent ozone depleting substances.
This statement is incorrect as well. Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) are not ozone-depleting substances. They are a type of greenhouse gas used as replacements for chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs), which were phased out due to their ozone-depleting properties. HFCs do not contain chlorine or bromine atoms that can destroy ozone molecules in the stratosphere. However, HFCs are potent greenhouse gases that contribute to global warming.
Statement 3: Increasing concentration of Sulphate aerosols can help reduce global temperatures.
This statement is correct. Sulphate aerosols, also known as sulfate aerosols, are tiny particles of sulfuric acid or sulfur dioxide suspended in the atmosphere. They are formed from the combustion of fossil fuels, volcanic eruptions, and other industrial processes.
Sulphate aerosols have a cooling effect on the Earth's climate. They reflect sunlight back into space, reducing the amount of solar radiation that reaches the Earth's surface. This phenomenon is known as the aerosol cooling effect or global dimming. It counteracts the warming effect of greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide. However, it's important to note that the cooling effect of sulphate aerosols is temporary and localized, while the warming effect of greenhouse gases is long-lasting and global.
In conclusion, out of the three given statements, only statement 3 is correct. Increased concentration of sulphate aerosols can indeed help reduce global temperatures, while the other two statements are incorrect.