In 1815, Mount Tambora in Indonesia erupted, spewing gases and dust into the atmosphere. Which of the following statements indicates how this eruption contributed to global climate change?
Answer
A
The eruption discharged large amounts of sulfur dioxide into the atmosphere, blocking sunlight and resulting in cooling of global temperatures.
B
The eruption discharged large amounts of ash into the atmosphere, blocking sunlight and resulting in warming of global temperatures.
C
The eruption discharged large amounts of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere, absorbing heat and resulting in cooling of global temperatures.
D
The eruption discharged large amounts of water vapor into the atmosphere, absorbing heat and resulting in warming of global temperatures.
Explanation
Tambora’s eruption released large amounts of sulfur dioxide, which formed tiny particles in the atmosphere. These particles reflected or blocked some incoming sunlight, cooling Earth’s surface and contributing to unusually cold conditions around the world. Therefore, the statement about sulfur dioxide blocking sunlight and causing global cooling is correct.
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