Question

scientists are trying to reduce the amounts of carbon dioxide and methane that enter the atmosphere. which statement explains what will most likely happen as a result of these efforts? these efforts will cause earth’s average temperature to increase. these efforts will decrease the amount of heat that the atmosphere traps. these efforts will reduce the amount of sunlight that reflects off the clouds. these efforts will allow more thermal energy to enter the atmosphere.

Explanation:

Carbon dioxide and methane are greenhouse gases that trap heat in the atmosphere. Reducing their emissions would mean less heat is trapped by the atmosphere. The first option is wrong because reducing these gases would likely lower, not increase, Earth's temperature. The third option is incorrect as reducing these gases doesn't relate to sunlight reflection off clouds. The fourth option is wrong because less greenhouse gases would mean less thermal energy is trapped, not more entering. So the correct reasoning supports the second option.

Answer:

These efforts will decrease the amount of heat that the atmosphere traps.