What is the greenhouse effect?

The greenhouse effect refers to the warming of Earth's surface as a result of certain gases in the atmosphere, known as greenhouse gases, trapping heat. This process begins when the Sun's energy reaches the Earth, where it is absorbed by the surface and then re-radiated as infrared radiation (heat). Greenhouse gases, including carbon dioxide, methane, and water vapor, absorb and re-radiate this infrared radiation, preventing it from escaping into space. This natural process keeps the Earth’s climate warm enough to support life.

In contrast, the cooling of Earth's surface due to heat escaping into space does not accurately describe the greenhouse effect; instead, it describes a process that is contrary to warming. The process of photosynthesis in plants is not related to atmospheric temperature regulation but rather the conversion of sunlight into energy by plants. Lastly, while human activities do impact the environment, the term "greenhouse effect" specifically refers to the warming phenomenon caused by trapped heat, not the broader environmental impacts of human actions.