Greenhouse gasses act to increase temperatures by absorbing and releasing

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Greenhouse gases trap longwave energy, also known as infrared radiation, that is radiating from the Earth's surface and re-emit it in all directions, including back towards the surface. This creates a blanket-like effect and causes the Earth's surface temperature to increase. Shortwave energy from the sun, on the other hand, is not absorbed by greenhouse gases and is allowed to pass through to the Earth's surface.

Greenhouse Gasses Act to Increase Temperatures by Absorbing and Releasing