Which of the Following Is the Most Significant Single Contributor

question 74

Multiple Choice

Which of the following is the most significant single contributor to the increase in the amount of carbon dioxide in Earth's atmosphere over the past 170 years?

• A) increased worldwide primary production
• B) an increase in the amount of infrared radiation absorbed by the atmosphere
• C) the burning of fossil fuels
• D) additional respiration by the rapidly growing human population

---

Definitions:

Compounded Annually

A method of calculating interest where the interest earned each year is added to the principal, so the balance doesn't merely grow, it grows at an increasing rate.

Interest

Money paid regularly at a particular rate for the use of money lent, or for delaying the repayment of a debt.

Outstanding Balance

It signifies the total amount still owed on a loan or credit line, factoring in both principal and interest, at a certain point in time.

Interest Rate

The amount charged, expressed as a percentage of principal, by a lender to a borrower for the use of assets over a specific period.