🔋college physics i – introduction review

key term - Greenhouse effect

Definition

The greenhouse effect is the process by which certain gases in Earth's atmosphere trap heat, preventing it from escaping into space. This natural phenomenon maintains Earth's temperature at a level suitable for life.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

  1. Greenhouse gases include carbon dioxide ($CO_2$), methane ($CH_4$), and water vapor ($H_2O$).
  2. Radiation from the sun enters Earth’s atmosphere, gets absorbed by the surface, and is re-emitted as infrared radiation.
  3. Greenhouse gases absorb and re-emit infrared radiation, trapping heat in the atmosphere.
  4. The greenhouse effect is essential for maintaining Earth’s average temperature around 15°C (59°F).
  5. An enhanced greenhouse effect, caused by increased levels of greenhouse gases due to human activities, leads to global warming.

Review Questions

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