Each of the following gases is present in the Earth's atmosphere. Which of them contributes to the greenhouse effect?

oxygen
nitrogen
water vapor
methane
carbon dioxide

1 answer

Among the gases listed, the following contribute to the greenhouse effect:

  1. Water vapor - This is the most abundant greenhouse gas and plays a significant role in warming the atmosphere.
  2. Methane - This is a potent greenhouse gas, significantly more effective at trapping heat in the atmosphere than carbon dioxide over a shorter time scale.
  3. Carbon dioxide - This is a key greenhouse gas produced by various natural and human activities, contributing to global warming.

Oxygen and nitrogen do not contribute to the greenhouse effect, as they do not absorb infrared radiation.