How are greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide and methane different from other atmospheric gases like nitrogen and oxygen?
A) Greenhouse gases absorb thermal energy from the Sun and reradiate it,whereas other atmospheric gases reflect it.
B) Greenhouse gases are more efficient at absorbing thermal energy and reradiating it than the other atmospheric gases.
C) Greenhouse gases are found at higher levels of the atmosphere,where ozone is found.
D) Greenhouse gases are found at lower levels of the atmosphere,where ozone is found.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Greenhouse gases, such as carbon dioxide and methane, have a unique ability to absorb thermal energy and reradiate it back to Earth's surface, trapping heat in the atmosphere. This ability is known as the greenhouse effect. Nitrogen and oxygen, which make up the majority of our atmosphere, do not have this same ability to absorb and reradiate thermal energy, making them different from greenhouse gases. Therefore, choice B is the best answer.

How Are Greenhouse Gases Like Carbon Dioxide and Methane Different