13. Based on the passage, what conclusion can be drawn about the relationship between the Industrial Revolution and climate change? The Industrial Revolution:
Answer: A
The Industrial Revolution led to a surge in human-generated greenhouse gas emissions disrupting Earth's natural balance.
The Industrial Revolution significantly increased the extraction and burning of fossil fuels, resulting in a dramatic rise in greenhouse gas emissions. This surge disrupted the natural balance of greenhouse gases, contributing to climate change.
A) led to a surge in human-generated greenhouse gas emissions disrupting Earth's natural balance.
This option accurately reflects the information presented in the extract. It highlights how the Industrial Revolution's reliance on fossil fuels caused a sharp increase in greenhouse gas emissions, which upset the planet's equilibrium and contributed to rising global temperatures.
B) marked the beginning of dependence on greenhouse gases to regulate the planet's temperature.
This statement is misleading as the Industrial Revolution did not establish a dependence on greenhouse gases for temperature regulation. Instead, it increased emissions beyond natural levels, leading to climate change rather than maintaining temperature regulation.
C) prompted technological advancements with minimal environmental impact.
While the Industrial Revolution did lead to technological advancements, the claim of minimal environmental impact is inaccurate. The advancements came at a significant environmental cost, particularly through increased greenhouse gas emissions and the subsequent impact on climate.
D) influenced the tracking of carbon footprints and development of climate policy.
This option suggests a relationship between the Industrial Revolution and climate policy development. However, the passage focuses on the negative environmental effects of the Industrial Revolution rather than its influence on the tracking of carbon footprints or climate policy, making this option less relevant.
Conclusion
The correct answer, A, clearly encapsulates the critical impact of the Industrial Revolution on climate change by emphasizing the surge in greenhouse gas emissions that disrupted Earth's natural balance. In contrast, the other options misunderstand the Industrial Revolution's effects, either by misrepresenting its environmental consequences or by failing to connect it to the core issue of climate disruption.