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 and thereby warming the planet. It is a crucial factor in maintaining Earth's temperature but can lead to global warming if intensified.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The greenhouse effect involves gases such as carbon dioxide ($CO_2$), methane ($CH_4$), and water vapor trapping infrared radiation.
2. It is an example of radiative heat transfer, where energy is transferred in the form of electromagnetic waves.
3. Without the greenhouse effect, Earth's average temperature would be significantly lower, making it less hospitable for life as we know it.
4. Human activities, such as burning fossil fuels and deforestation, have increased concentrations of greenhouse gases, intensifying the greenhouse effect.
5. The balance between incoming solar radiation and outgoing infrared radiation determines Earth's overall energy balance and climate.

Review Questions

• What role do greenhouse gases play in the mechanism of heat transfer?
• How does the greenhouse effect contribute to maintaining Earth's temperature?
• What are some human activities that have intensified the greenhouse effect?

Related terms

Infrared Radiation: A type of electromagnetic radiation with longer wavelengths than visible light, crucial for the process of radiative heat transfer in the greenhouse effect.

Thermal Equilibrium: A state where an object's rate of energy absorption equals its rate of energy emission, relevant to understanding how Earth maintains its energy balance.

Radiative Heat Transfer: The process by which energy is transferred through electromagnetic waves. It is a key mechanism involved in phenomena like the greenhouse effect.