Use compatible defined quantities
The first case supplies comparable emissions and denominator values. The second has a true zero baseline. The third compares an inventory with an action estimate under another framework.
Identify the question each number answers
A ratio change, an absolute change and a counterfactual impact are different quantities. The explanations keep those definitions explicit rather than choosing the most favorable-looking result.
Try the questions
Emissions rise from 100 to 120, while the denominator rises from 10 to 15. Which statement is correct?
- A.
Absolute emissions fall 20%
- B.
Intensity falls 20% while emissions rise 20%
- C.
Both changes are 50%
Answer and explanation
Answer: B
Calculate numerator and ratio changes against their own baselines.
- A
The emissions numerator rises 20%.
- B
Intensities are 10 and 8, so the ratio falls while the numerator grows.
- C
50% is the denominator growth, not either other change.
Prior emissions are zero and current emissions are 10. What ordinary emissions percentage change is defined against that baseline?
- A.
100%
- B.
0%
- C.
It is undefined; report levels and absolute change
Answer and explanation
Answer: C
A zero baseline prevents the finite ordinary percentage calculation.
- A
The ordinary change formula divides by zero; one hundred percent is not supplied.
- B
This would invent a defined relative comparison.
- C
The absolute difference is ten, but the relative baseline is zero.
An inventory is 100 and a separate counterfactual study claims 30 avoided. Does subtracting establish inventory emissions of 70?
- A.
Yes, by arithmetic alone
- B.
No; the measurements need separate definitions
- C.
The inventory must instead be 130
Answer and explanation
Answer: B
Read the framework, coverage and counterfactual before any aggregation.
- A
Numerical subtraction does not establish compatible measurement boundaries.
- B
An action-impact estimate is not automatically an inventory adjustment.
- C
Adding the unlike quantities is also not justified by their labels.