NASA's Carbon Observatory Quiz

What is the primary reason carbon dioxide is a major focus in discussions about climate change?

• It is the most abundant gas in the atmosphere.

• It is the most important driver of global warming.

• It is the only greenhouse gas.

• It is the easiest gas to measure.

What is the main goal of NASA's OCO-2 mission?

• To track the movement of ocean currents.

• To study the effects of solar flares on Earth.

• To measure the levels of carbon dioxide in Earth's atmosphere.

• To explore Mars for signs of life.

Why did the original OCO mission fail to reach orbit?

• Due to a malfunction in the satellite's sensors.

• Because of adverse weather conditions.

• Due to a separation anomaly in the launch vehicle.

• Because of a lack of funding.

How does OCO-2 detect carbon dioxide in the atmosphere?

• By analyzing ocean currents.

• By capturing images of the Earth's surface.

• By using three onboard spectrometers.

• By measuring temperature changes.

What is the expected outcome of the data collected by OCO-2?

• To improve the accuracy of global climate change predictions.

• To eliminate the need for ground-based weather stations.

• To increase the Earth's temperature.

• To reduce the levels of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere.