Correct option is D
The Correct Answer is Nitrogen
The greenhouse effect is the process by which solar energy is trapped by the Earth's atmosphere and radiates slowly, essentially creating a natural warm blanket around Earth. This process is vital for maintaining the Earth's temperature and ensuring it remains suitable for life.
The main greenhouse gases include:
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Carbon dioxide (CO₂)
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Methane (CH₄)
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Water vapor (H₂O)
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Nitrous oxide (N₂O)
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Ozone (O₃)
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Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs)
These gases absorb infrared radiation emitted by the Earth's surface, thereby trapping heat. From the list above:
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Nitrogen (N₂), however, is not a greenhouse gas. Nitrogen makes up approximately 78% of Earth's atmosphere, but it does not trap heat in the same way other gases like CO₂ or CH₄ do. Nitrogen is an inert gas and does not contribute to the greenhouse effect.
Information Booster:
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Greenhouse gases' role:
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Water vapour: Contributes 36% - 70% to the greenhouse effect.
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Carbon dioxide (CO₂): Contributes 9% - 26%.
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Methane (CH₄): Contributes 4% - 9%.
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Ozone (O₃): Also plays a role in absorbing radiation.
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Nitrous oxide (N₂O) and
CFCs contribute in smaller amounts.
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Absorption values of greenhouse gases (percentage of radiation absorbed):
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Ozone (O₃): 10.2%
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Methane (CH₄): 16.3%
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Carbon Dioxide (CO₂): 56.4%
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Nitrous Oxide (N₂O): 5.4%