Question

Write like a 9th grader. Some greenhouse gases, such as fluorocarbons (CFCs, HFCs, PFCs, etc.), are human-made. Others, such as water, methane, and carbon dioxide, are naturally produced. Which type of greenhouse gas (human-made or natural) is more difficult to control and eliminate? Which types are easier? In three to five sentences, provide evidence for your argument.

Answer 1

Human-made greenhouse gases, like fluorocarbons (CFCs and HFCs), are more difficult to control and eliminate because they are often used in everyday products like aerosols and refrigerants. These gases can linger in the atmosphere for a very long time, which means once they are released, they stick around and contribute to climate change. In contrast, natural greenhouse gases, like carbon dioxide and methane, are part of Earth’s natural processes (like respiration and decay), and while they can still be harmful in large amounts, we can manage them more easily through actions like planting trees or changing farming practices. Overall, reducing human-made gases requires more regulation and innovation since they don’t have to be present in everyday products.