What does the greenhouse effect refer to?

The greenhouse effect refers to the warming of Earth's surface due to greenhouse gas emissions. In this process, certain gases in the Earth's atmosphere, such as carbon dioxide, methane, and water vapor, trap heat from the sun. This heat retention keeps the Earth's surface warmer than it would be without these gases, creating a stable climate that supports life.

When sunlight reaches the Earth, some of it is reflected back into space, while much of it is absorbed, warming the surface. The Earth then emits this heat in the form of infrared radiation. Greenhouse gases absorb and re-radiate some of this thermal energy back toward the surface, which results in a net warming effect. This mechanism is essential for maintaining the planet's temperature, but human activities leading to increased greenhouse gas emissions are enhancing this natural effect, contributing to global warming and climate change.