On April 20, 2010, an explosion on the Deepwater Horizon Macondo oil well drilling platform released 4 million barrels (636,000 cubic meters) of oil into the Gulf of Mexico. It took scientists and engineers nearly three months and several different attempts to cap the well. The Macondo oil well was located 1524 m (5000 feet) below the surface of the water, about 80 km (50 miles) off the coast of Louisiana. The spill affected 2113 km (1300 miles) of shoreline along the coasts of five states. Most crude oil contains 84–87% carbon by weight. Scientists have not yet fully assessed the environmental impact of the accident. Large oil spills like this one often spark new protests and movements against the use of fossil fuels, particularly as they relate to climate change. Which statement best summarizes how the extraction and burning of petroleum products relates to climate change?
a
Burning petroleum products increases greenhouse gas concentrations, which weakens the heat-retaining properties of the atmosphere.
b
Burning petroleum products increases greenhouse gas concentrations, which intensifies the heat-retaining properties of the atmosphere.
c
Burning petroleum products decreases greenhouse gas concentrations, which intensifies the heat-retaining properties of the atmosphere.
d
Burning petroleum products decreases greenhouse gas concentrations, which weakens the heat-retaining properties of the atmosphere.