The table shows the change in the percentage of paved surfaces in an area of Washington, D.C. from 1984 to 2010.

Question

Year 1984, 2010
Percent of paved surfaces 22, 26

In what two ways does the change in paved surfaces affect the climate?

A. Paved surfaces react with rainwater to form carbon dioxide.

B. Paved surfaces break down and release carbon dioxide over time.

C. Paved surfaces absorb more heat than vegetated or lighter colored surfaces.

D. Paved surfaces release more heat from geologic processes in Earth's interior.

E. Paved surfaces generate greenhouse gas emissions during production of the needed materials.

Answer 1

The two ways that the change in paved surfaces affects the climate are:

C. Paved surfaces absorb more heat than vegetated or lighter colored surfaces.
E. Paved surfaces generate greenhouse gas emissions during production of the needed materials.

These options reflect how increased paved surfaces contribute to urban heat islands and The carbon footprint associated with materials used in construction.