This figure (corrected version of Figure 3.1 in the book) shows the preindustria

Question

This figure (corrected version of Figure 3.1 in the book) shows the preindustrial (black) and recent changed (red) carbon fluxes and reservoirs. You can download this figure and zoom in on the values as well

1.) The figure above uses unit of PgC, whereas other figures (e.g., Figure 3.2 in Houghton) use ppm for atmospheric concentrations. 2.12 PgC is approximately 1 ppm. Convert the current (as of the date of this figure) atmospheric carbon reservoir into the concentration in ppm. Round to the nearest whole number.

2.) What was the pre-industrial concentration in ppm (based on the figure at the top) Round to nearest whole number.

Explanation / Answer

Q.1. Convert the current (as of the date of this figure) atmospheric carbon reservoir into the concentration in ppm. Round to the nearest whole number.

Answer: Current Atmospheric carbon as shown in figure = 589 + 240 + 10 = 839 PgC

Given: 2.12 PgC is approximately 1 ppm.

839 PgC = 839/2.12 ppm = 395.75= 395 ppm

Q.2. What was the pre-industrial concentration in ppm (based on the figure at the top) Round to nearest whole number.

Answer: Current Atmospheric carbon as shown in figure = 589 PgC

589 PgC = 589 PgC/2.12 = 277.83 = 277 ppm

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