The Greenhouse Effect

The greenhouse effect is a natural process that warms the Earth's surface. It's like a blanket
that keeps our planet warm enough for life to thrive.

Key Players
● Sun: The Sun sends energy to Earth in the form of sunlight.
● Atmosphere: The Earth's atmosphere is made up of gases like carbon dioxide (CO2),
methane (CH4), and water vapor. These gases trap some of the Sun's energy,
preventing it from escaping back into space.

How it Works
● Incoming Solar Radiation: The Sun's energy reaches the Earth in the form of
sunlight.
● Absorption: The Earth's surface absorbs this energy, warming up.
● Outgoing Infrared Radiation: The Earth then emits this absorbed energy back into
space as infrared radiation (heat).
● Greenhouse Gases: Greenhouse gases in the atmosphere trap some of this outgoing
heat, preventing it from escaping entirely.
● Natural Balance: This natural greenhouse effect is essential for keeping the Earth's
temperature within a range suitable for life.

Human Influence:
● Burning Fossil Fuels: Activities like burning coal, oil, and natural gas release
additional greenhouse gases into the atmosphere, enhancing the greenhouse effect.
● Deforestation: Cutting down trees reduces the number of plants that can absorb
CO2, leading to an increase in greenhouse gases.

Consequences
● Global Warming: The enhanced greenhouse effect contributes to a gradual increase
in Earth's average temperature, known as global warming.
● Climate Change: Changes in temperature patterns can lead to shifts in weather
patterns, affecting ecosystems and weather events worldwide.