17. Based on the passage, what conclusion can be drawn about the relationship between the Industrial Revolution and climate change? The Industrial Revolution:
Answer: A
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 sharp rise in greenhouse gas emissions that disrupted the planet's natural balance and contributed 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, which states that the Industrial Revolution caused a significant increase in greenhouse gas emissions. This surge is directly linked to the disruption of Earth's natural balance, leading to climate change.
B) marked the beginning of dependence on greenhouse gases to regulate the planet's temperature.
This option is incorrect because it misrepresents the role of greenhouse gases. While greenhouse gases do help regulate the planet's temperature, the Industrial Revolution marked the beginning of increased emissions due to human activity, not a natural dependence on them.
C) influenced the tracking of carbon footprints and development of climate policy.
While the Industrial Revolution did lead to environmental awareness, this option does not directly address the immediate impact of the Industrial Revolution on greenhouse gas emissions. The tracking of carbon footprints and policy development is a later consequence rather than a direct relationship.
D) prompted technological advancements with minimal environmental impact.
This option is incorrect as it overlooks the significant environmental impact of industrial advancements. The technological progress during the Industrial Revolution primarily contributed to increased emissions and environmental degradation, rather than having minimal impact.
Conclusion
The correct answer, A, highlights the crucial role of the Industrial Revolution in escalating greenhouse gas emissions and disrupting Earth's balance, which is a key factor in climate change. Other options fail to accurately encapsulate this relationship, either misrepresenting the effects or focusing on less relevant aspects of the Industrial Revolution's impact on the environment.