Give me a very simple definition of greenhouse effect and use vocabulary like what a kid or student might write

11 answers

The greenhouse effect is when certain gases in the Earth's atmosphere trap heat from the sun, keeping the planet warm enough for living things to survive. It's like a blanket around the Earth that helps to hold in warmth.

Simpler

The greenhouse effect is when gases in the air keep the Earth warm by holding in heat from the sun, like a warm blanket.

Do the same thing with greenhouse gases

Greenhouse gases are special gases in the air that help keep the Earth warm by trapping heat from the sun. Examples include carbon dioxide and methane.

Now do radiation

Radiation is energy that travels in waves or tiny particles. It can come from things like the sun, X-ray machines, or even some rocks. Some radiation is safe, but too much can be harmful.

Now to conduction

Conduction is the way heat moves through solid objects. It happens when one part of something hot warms up another part that is cooler. For example, if you touch a hot stove, heat moves from the stove to your hand through conduction.

Convection

Convection is the way heat moves through liquids and gases. It happens when warmer parts of a liquid or gas rise, while cooler parts sink. This creates a flow, like when hot air rises in a room and cooler air comes in to take its place.