Greenhouse Effect

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What is the greenhouse effect?

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The greenhouse effect is the process by which certain gases in Earth's atmosphere trap heat, preventing it from escaping into space, which helps to keep the planet warm.

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What are greenhouse gases?

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Greenhouse gases are gases that contribute to the greenhouse effect by absorbing infrared radiation. Key examples include carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), and nitrous oxide (N2O).

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How does increased carbon dioxide affect Earth's temperature?

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Increased carbon dioxide traps more heat in the atmosphere, leading to higher global temperatures.

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What is deforestation and how does it impact the greenhouse effect?

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Deforestation is the clearing of forests, which reduces the number of plants that can absorb carbon dioxide, a greenhouse gas, thus contributing to increased atmospheric CO2 levels.

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What has been the trend of atmospheric carbon dioxide levels since 1960?

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Atmospheric carbon dioxide levels have increased steadily since 1960.

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What would happen to Earth without greenhouse gases?

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Without greenhouse gases, more heat from solar radiation would escape into space, resulting in a much colder planet.

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What role do clouds play in the greenhouse effect?

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Clouds can reflect sunlight back into space, but they can also trap heat, contributing to the greenhouse effect.

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What is the relationship between human activities and greenhouse gas emissions?

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Human activities, such as burning fossil fuels and deforestation, significantly increase greenhouse gas emissions, enhancing the greenhouse effect.

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What is the significance of the carbon cycle in relation to the greenhouse effect?

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The carbon cycle describes how carbon moves through the environment, and disruptions to this cycle can lead to increased greenhouse gas concentrations in the atmosphere.

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What are some consequences of global warming?

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Consequences of global warming include rising sea levels, more extreme weather events, and disruptions to ecosystems.