CARBON DIOXIDE: THE TRACE GREENHOUSE GAS OF LIFE
Rob Louw, physics lecturer, U3A science groups, United Kingdom
Monday 20–Wednesday 22 January 9.15 am COURSE FEES R330; Staff and students R165
This course will share insights about carbon dioxide and its role in sustaining life on Earth. Carbon dioxide, which is invisible and odourless, is a key component in our atmosphere. Despite being present in trace quantities, it has an influence on Earth’s climate. It is a non-toxic gas that is a greenhouse gas. Greenhouse gases are able to absorb and emit electromagnetic radiation in the infrared spectrum. They actively participate in the intricate mechanisms of heat transfer within the Earth’s atmosphere. This interaction plays a role in the regulation of our planet’s temperature.
Based on fundamental scientific principles, these lectures will delve into the scientific foundations under- pinning the mechanisms by which greenhouse and other atmospheric gases contribute to the shaping of our planet’s climate. The lectures will offer valuable insights and foster a deeper understanding of this complex yet captivating subject matter.
Please note that films which augment the lectures will be shown at 1.00 pm on Monday 20, Tuesday 21 and Wednesday 22 January. There is no charge for the films. The films will be shown in classroom 2A.
Lecture titles
- The Earth’s atmosphere
- Greenhouse gas physics
- Carbon dioxide through the ages
Recommended reading and viewing
Vinos, J. 2023. Solving the Climate Puzzle. Madrid: Critical Science Press. Koonin, S.E. 2021. Unsettled. Dallas Texas: BenBella Books, Inc.
Various YouTube clips by Markus Ott and Michael von Biezen
TO BOOK: https://www.webtickets.co.za/v2/performance.aspx?itemid=1554936772