4.5 - The Greenhouse Effect

The greenhouse effect

• Gases in the atmosphere trap some of the heat radiated from the Earth's surface, keeping the planet warm enough to support life. This warming is called the greenhouse effect.
• Carbon dioxide is the greenhouse gas whose increase is most responsible for global warming.
• Methane is another greenhouse gas, released by:
  • Decomposing vegetation
  • Digestion in animals

More greenhouse gas means more warming

• An increase in carbon dioxide or methane traps more heat in the atmosphere.
• This drives climate change: as average global temperatures rise, wider weather and climate patterns change with them.