A Simple Model for Atmospheric Carbon Dioxide

In this problem set, learners will create and use a differential equation of rate-of-change of atmospheric carbon dioxide. They will refer to the "Keeling Curve" graph and information on the sources and sinks of carbon on Earth to create the equation and apply it to answer a series of questions. Answer key is provided. This is part of Earth Math: A Brief Mathematical Guide to Earth Science and Climate Change.

This resource is located on page 58 of the PDF document.

Keywords: Keeling Curve; Gigaton; Differential equation; Carbon sink; Model

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Source

NASA GSFCLast modified 2009

Audience

Education Level: High school:Grade 10, High school:Grade 11, High school:Grade 12

Topics

Earth and space science:Earth processes:Climate Earth and space science:Earth structure:Atmosphere Mathematics:Algebra Mathematics:Problem solving The nature of science:Science and society

Resource Type

Problem set