Arrange the steps in order to describe how photons and carbon dioxide (CO2) contribute to the warming of Earth.

Question

A:CO2 in the atmosphere absorbs infrared photons.
B:CO2 in the atmosphere emits infrared photons back toward Earth.
C:Photons from the Sun strike Earth and become infrared photons.
D:Earth radiates infrared photons into the atmosphere.
E:The Sun radiates sunlight (visible) photons.

Answer 1

1. The Sun radiates sunlight (visible) photons.
2. Photons from the Sun strike Earth and become infrared photons.
3. Earth radiates infrared photons into the atmosphere.
4. CO2 in the atmosphere absorbs infrared photons.
5. CO2 in the atmosphere emits infrared photons back toward Earth.

Correct order: E -> C -> D -> A -> B