The atmospheric greenhouse effect is produced mainly by the
A) absorption and re-emission of visible light by the atmosphere.
B) absorption and re-emission of ultraviolet radiation by the atmosphere.
C) absorption and re-emission of infrared radiation by the atmosphere.
D) absorption and re-emission of visible light by clouds.
E) absorption and re-emission of visible light by the ground.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The atmospheric greenhouse effect is produced mainly by the absorption and re-emission of infrared radiation by the atmosphere. Greenhouse gases, such as carbon dioxide and water vapor, absorb infrared radiation emitted by the Earth's surface and trap the heat in the atmosphere, contributing to global warming. Visible light and ultraviolet radiation are not the main contributors to the greenhouse effect, as they are not absorbed and re-emitted in the same way as infrared radiation.

The Atmospheric Greenhouse Effect Is Produced Mainly by the