greenhouse gas (Q218)
Jump to navigation
Jump to search
Greenhouse gases are molecules in our atmosphere that absorb heat radiating from Earth’s surface, preventing it from being emitted into space.
- green house gases
- green house gas
- GHG
- GHGs
- greenhouse gases
- CO2e
- carbon dioxide equivalent
| Language | Label | Description | Also known as |
|---|---|---|---|
| English | greenhouse gas |
Greenhouse gases are molecules in our atmosphere that absorb heat radiating from Earth’s surface, preventing it from being emitted into space. |
|
Statements
Greenhouse gases are atmospheric constituents that absorb and emit infrared radiation, trapping heat and thereby regulating Earth's temperature. They include naturally-occurring components—like water vapour and carbon dioxide—and human-made emissions such as various fluorinated compounds. Due to their molecular properties, these gases play a crucial role in the natural greenhouse effect, which sustains life by maintaining a habitable climate. But when their concentrations are enhanced through activities like fossil fuel combustion, deforestation, and industrial processes, they lead to an amplified greenhouse effect and drive climate change.