Greenhouse Effect and Global Warming Quiz

Greenhouse Gases and the Atmosphere

• Greenhouse gases, such as carbon dioxide, methane, and water vapor, trap heat in the Earth's atmosphere, maintaining a habitable temperature.
• The greenhouse effect is a natural process that warms the planet, allowing life to thrive.

Impact on Earth's Temperature

• The greenhouse effect increases the Earth's average temperature by about 33°C, making it suitable for life.
• Without the greenhouse effect, the planet's average temperature would be around -18°C, making it inhospitable.

Contributors to the Greenhouse Effect

• Carbon dioxide (CO2) is the most abundant greenhouse gas, responsible for about 65% of the warming effect.
• Methane (CH4) is the second-most potent greenhouse gas, with a global warming potential 28 times higher than CO2.
• Water vapor (H2O) is the most abundant greenhouse gas in terms of volume, but its concentration is largely controlled by temperature.

Ozone Layer Function

• The ozone layer (O3) protects the Earth's surface from harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation, which can damage living organisms.
• The ozone layer is essential for life on Earth, as it allows plants to undergo photosynthesis and supports the food chain.

Essential Gases for Life

• Methane, carbon dioxide, and water vapor are essential for life on Earth, as they provide the necessary conditions for photosynthesis, respiration, and other biological processes.
• These gases help regulate the Earth's temperature, allowing life to thrive in a narrow range of temperatures.