What is the relationship between global warming and the greenhouse effect?
A) They are the same phenomenon;the two different terms mean the same thing.
B) Global warming occurs when the concentration of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere becomes unbalanced;more gases enter than leave the atmosphere.
C) They are different processes,both of which are keeping Earth's climate constant.
D) Global warming occurs when the concentration of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere becomes unbalanced;more gases leave than enter the atmosphere.
E) They are different processes,both of which are destabilizing Earth's climate.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The greenhouse effect and global warming are related, but not the same thing. The greenhouse effect is a natural process that occurs when certain gases in the atmosphere trap heat from the sun and prevent it from radiating back out into space. This helps to keep Earth's temperature stable and within a range that allows life to thrive. However, when the concentration of greenhouse gases, such as carbon dioxide, methane, and water vapor, becomes unbalanced and more gases enter than leave the atmosphere, the greenhouse effect becomes stronger and the Earth's temperature slowly rises. This process is known as global warming, and it can have serious consequences for the environment, including melting glaciers, rising sea levels, and more extreme weather events.

What Is the Relationship Between Global Warming and the Greenhouse