Greenhouse Gases
Greenhouse gases are a type of gas that trap heat inside the atmosphere, and are responsible for the phenomenon known as the greenhouse effect These gases are naturally occurring, and include water vapor, methane, nitrous oxide, and carbon dioxide. Greenhouse gases absorb infrared radiation and convert that energy into heat. This heat is released back towards the Earth, trapping it inside the atmosphere and making it warmer. This is why the Earth's climate is livable, as the atmosphere provides a protective layer that keeps us warm.
Examples of Greenhouse Gases
1. Water Vapor: Water vapor, which is found in the Earth's atmosphere, is the most abundant greenhouse gas. This gas is released through evaporation from the Earth's surface, and is responsible for much of the Earth's temperature fluctuations.
2. Methane: Methane is a very powerful greenhouse gas, though it is present in much lower concentrations than water vapor. It is released from landfills, agriculture, and other human activities, and is also a major component of natural gas.
3. Nitrous Oxide: Nitrous oxide is a powerful greenhouse gas that is released from both human and natural sources. The largest human sources are fertilizers, automobiles, and burning fossil fuels.
4. Carbon Dioxide: Carbon dioxide is the second most abundant greenhouse gas, and is responsible for a significant portion of the Earth's warming. It is released from power plants, burning of fossil fuels, deforestation, and other human activities.
5. Ozone: Ozone is a greenhouse gas that is found in the stratosphere. It absorbs harmful ultraviolet radiation and helps to keep the Earth cool. Ozone levels have been decreasing in recent decades due to human activities.