Greenhouse gases

Sample Solution

Greenhouse gases are gases that trap heat in the Earth's atmosphere. This natural process, known as the greenhouse effect, keeps our planet warm enough to support life. However, human activities have increased the concentration of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, leading to a more intense greenhouse effect and global warming. Common greenhouse gases include:

• Carbon dioxide (CO2): The most abundant greenhouse gas, primarily emitted from the burning of fossil fuels (coal, oil, natural gas) and deforestation.
• Methane (CH4): A potent greenhouse gas emitted from agriculture, waste decomposition, and fossil fuel extraction.
• Nitrous oxide (N2O): Released from agricultural activities, industrial processes, and the burning of fossil fuels.
• Fluorinated gases: A group of synthetic gases used as refrigerants, propellants, and fire suppressants.

Impact on Earth's Atmosphere: When greenhouse gases accumulate in the atmosphere, they trap more of the Sun's heat, preventing it from escaping back into space. This excess heat leads to a rise in global temperatures, which can have far-reaching consequences. Impacts of Climate Change: Climate change is already affecting our planet in numerous ways, including:

• Rising sea levels: As the Earth's temperature increases, glaciers and ice sheets melt, contributing to rising sea levels and coastal erosion.
• Changing weather patterns: Climate change is altering precipitation patterns, leading to more extreme weather events such as droughts, floods, and heatwaves.
• Ocean acidification: The absorption of carbon dioxide by the oceans is causing them to become more acidic, threatening marine ecosystems.
• Loss of biodiversity: Climate change is disrupting ecosystems and leading to the loss of species, impacting food chains and ecological balance.
• Impacts on human health: Climate change can exacerbate health problems such as heat-related illnesses, respiratory diseases, and waterborne diseases.

Addressing climate change requires a global effort to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and transition to sustainable energy sources.