To compute the flow rate (f) of methane from a landfill given its mass (m) and residence time (T), we will use the formula:
[tex]\[ T = \frac{m}{f} \][/tex]
Rearranging for flow rate (f), we get:
[tex]\[ f = \frac{m}{T} \][/tex]
Given:
- The mass (m) of methane is [tex]\( 4.3 \times 10^{15} \)[/tex] grams.
- The residence time (T) of methane is 8 years.
Using the formula:
[tex]\[ f = \frac{4.3 \times 10^{15}}{8} = 537500000000000 \, \text{grams per year} \][/tex]
Now, applying this to Martha's report, here is the complete solution:
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Landfill Methane
Humans produce a huge amount of waste every day. Landfills were designed to combat this large amount of waste by accumulating and disposing of it. Organic waste from landfills undergoes decomposition in the absence of oxygen, producing gases. Methane gas is a large percentage of the gases emitted from landfills.
If we consider a landfill a reservoir, the flow rate of methane is 537500000000000 grams per year.
Methane has a longer residence time than [tex]\(CO_2\)[/tex] and it is a greenhouse gas that traps heat very effectively. Therefore, methane raises the temperature of the reservoir.
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This narrative ensures the correct completion of Martha's report in a clear and concise manner.
