Question

multiple choice 1 point how does the greenhouse effect work? greenhouse gases cool the atmosphere by reflecting solar radiation. greenhouse gases create a physical barrier similar to glass in a greenhouse. greenhouse gases trap heat in the atmosphere that would otherwise escape into space. greenhouse gases block sunlight from reaching earths surface.

Explanation:

To determine the correct answer, we analyze each option:

• Option 1: Greenhouse gases do not cool the atmosphere; they contribute to warming, so this is incorrect.
• Option 2: Greenhouse gases do not create a physical barrier like glass in a greenhouse. The greenhouse effect is about heat retention, not a physical barrier like glass.
• Option 3: Greenhouse gases (like carbon dioxide, methane) absorb and re - emit infrared radiation (heat) that is emitted from the Earth's surface. This traps the heat in the atmosphere that would otherwise escape to space, which is the correct mechanism of the greenhouse effect.
• Option 4: Greenhouse gases do not block sunlight from reaching the Earth's surface; sunlight passes through the atmosphere to reach the surface, and it's the heat (infrared radiation) emitted from the surface that is trapped.

Answer:

1. Greenhouse gases trap heat in the atmosphere that would otherwise escape into space.