What greenhouse effect phenomenon involves certain gases trapping heat in the atmosphere?

The greenhouse gas effect is the phenomenon whereby certain gases in the Earth's atmosphere, known as greenhouse gases, trap heat. These gases include carbon dioxide, methane, nitrous oxide, and water vapor. When solar radiation reaches the Earth's surface, some of it is reflected back into space while the rest is absorbed, warming the planet. The greenhouse gases then re-radiate this heat, effectively insulating the Earth and keeping it warm enough to support life.

This process is crucial for maintaining the planet's temperature at a level conducive to life as we know it. Without the greenhouse effect, the average surface temperature of the Earth would be much colder, making it difficult for many ecosystems to thrive. The role of greenhouse gases in trapping heat is essential knowledge in understanding climate systems and how human activities, such as burning fossil fuels and deforestation, are affecting global warming and climate change.

While ozone depletion and acid rain are environmental issues linked to changes in atmospheric conditions, they do not involve the trapping of heat. Ozone depletion refers to the reduction of ozone in the stratosphere, which protects against harmful ultraviolet radiation, while acid rain results from sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides reacting in the atmosphere, leading to precipitation that harms ecosystems. Climate change is the broader term that