The greenhouse effect is a natural process that warms the Earth’s surface. When the Sun's energy reaches the Earth, some of it is reflected back into space and the rest is absorbed and re-radiated by greenhouse gases. These gases trap heat in the atmosphere, keeping our planet warm enough to sustain life. However, human activities have increased the concentration of these gases, leading to an enhanced greenhouse effect and global warming.
The natural greenhouse effect is essential for maintaining Earth's temperature within a habitable range. Without it, our planet would be too cold to support life as we know it. Key greenhouse gases involved include water vapor ($H_2O$), carbon dioxide ($CO_2$), methane ($CH_4$), and nitrous oxide ($N_2O$).
The enhanced greenhouse effect refers to the increase in the concentration of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere due to human activities, primarily the burning of fossil fuels, deforestation, and industrial processes. This leads to more heat being trapped, causing global warming and climate change.
| Feature | Natural Greenhouse Effect | Enhanced Greenhouse Effect |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | The natural process of trapping heat to maintain Earth's temperature. | The increase in greenhouse gas concentrations due to human activities, leading to additional heat trapping. |
| Primary Gases | Water vapor, carbon dioxide, methane, nitrous oxide. | Carbon dioxide (from burning fossil fuels), methane (from agriculture), nitrous oxide (from industrial processes), synthetic gases. |
| Causes | Natural processes such as volcanic eruptions and natural decomposition. | Burning of fossil fuels, deforestation, industrial processes, and agricultural practices. |
| Impact | Maintains a stable and habitable climate. | Global warming, climate change, sea-level rise, extreme weather events. |
| Balance | Keeps Earth at a stable temperature of about 15°C (59°F). | Disrupts the Earth's energy balance, leading to higher average temperatures. |
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