Greenhouse effect Flashcards
What is the greenhouse effect?
Warming of the atmosphere due to the trapping of IR by absorption by molecular bonds
What are the 3 most important greenhouse gases?
Water, carbon dioxide and methane
How do greenhouse gases trap heat close to the earth’ surface?
Heat is released from the planet’s surface and IR is absorbed by molecular bonds which vibrate. The IR is re-released and some will continue into outer space but some is reflected back to the surface, keeping it warm
What 2 factors determine a gas’ contribution to the greenhouse effect?
Energy absorbed by bonds and concentration
Why is the term ‘global warming’ misleading?
Some areas have higher temperatures and some experience cooling effects
What are consequences of global warming?
Climate change, loss of drinking water and rising sea levels
What are ways of reducing greenhouse gas emission?
Increased use of renewable energy and efficient energy use
