The term "greenhouse effect" refers to
A) condensation of water vapor to form dew.
B) conversion of carbon dioxide to oxygen by green plants.
C) heating of the atmosphere by direct solar radiation.
D) heating of the atmosphere by radiation from the earth.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The greenhouse effect refers to the process by which infrared radiation from the Earth's surface is trapped by certain gases in the atmosphere, such as carbon dioxide and water vapor, causing them to heat up and warm the atmosphere. This trapping of radiation is similar to how a greenhouse traps heat, hence the name "greenhouse effect."

The Term "Greenhouse Effect" Refers to