What is the fate of CO2 produced by fossil fuel combustion?

Paul Quay, University of Washington. This activity is hosted by the Science Education Resource Center (SERC) at Carleton College

Students consider why the observed atmospheric CO2 increase rate is only ~60% of the CO2 loading rate due to fossil fuel combustion. They develop a box-model to simulate the atmospheric CO2 increase during the industrial era and compare it to the historic observations of atmospheric CO2 concentrations. The model is then used to forecast future concentrations of atmospheric CO2 during the next century.

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Background material and activity handout are included with extensive instructions that guide students through several modeling exercises. Questions are included to help them reflect on what they have done. While the process is directive and step-by-step, it can help set the stage for inquiry-based discussions.