Unit 5 ENV Sci Flashcard Greenhouse Gases

Front

What is a greenhouse gas?

Back

A greenhouse gas is a gas that traps heat in the atmosphere, contributing to the greenhouse effect and global warming.

Front

Name three major greenhouse gases.

Back

Carbon dioxide (CO2), Methane (CH4), and Nitrous oxide (N2O) are three major greenhouse gases.

Front

What is the greenhouse effect?

Back

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

Front

How does carbon dioxide contribute to global warming?

Back

Carbon dioxide absorbs infrared radiation emitted from the Earth's surface, leading to an increase in atmospheric temperatures.

Front

Which gas is considered the most potent greenhouse gas in terms of its heat-trapping ability?

Back

Methane is considered the most potent greenhouse gas, with a much higher heat-trapping ability than carbon dioxide.

Front

What happens to sea levels when global temperatures rise?

Back

When global temperatures rise, sea levels increase due to the melting of polar ice caps and glaciers.

Front

What role does water vapor play in the greenhouse effect?

Back

Water vapor is a significant greenhouse gas that amplifies the greenhouse effect by trapping heat in the atmosphere.

Front

What is the primary source of methane emissions?

Back

The primary sources of methane emissions include agriculture (especially livestock), landfills, and natural gas production.

Front

How does deforestation affect greenhouse gas levels?

Back

Deforestation increases greenhouse gas levels by reducing the number of trees that can absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.

Front

What is the relationship between greenhouse gases and infrared radiation?

Back

Greenhouse gases absorb and re-emit infrared radiation, which increases the temperature of the atmosphere.