Why do greenhouse gases such as CO2 and N2O contribute to an increase in Earth’s atmospheric temperature?

Greenhouse Gases and their Impact on Earth’s Temperature

Greenhouse gases play a crucial role in regulating Earth's temperature. Among the most prominent greenhouse gases are carbon dioxide (CO2) and nitrous oxide (N2O). These gases act as a sort of blanket surrounding the Earth, trapping heat and preventing it from escaping into space. This phenomenon is known as the greenhouse effect.

Contribution to Global Warming

CO2 and N2O keep the energy that reaches Earth from the sun within the atmosphere. Without these greenhouse gases, our planet would be too cold to support life. However, the increased levels of greenhouse gases due to human activities have intensified the greenhouse effect. More energy from the sun is trapped in the Earth's atmosphere, leading to a gradual rise in global temperatures. This phenomenon is known as global warming.

Answer:

By trapping the excess heat in the Earth's Atmosphere

Explanation:

When sunlight and other radiations reach Earth, a portion of this energy is reflected back into space. Greenhouse gases like CO2 and N2O trap this reflected heat, helping to maintain the temperature on Earth. This process is essential to create a climate that is conducive to supporting life on our planet. Without these gases, Earth would be too cold for life to thrive. Conversely, if these gases are present in excessive amounts, they can trap excess heat and lead to a rise in overall Earth's temperature, resulting in global warming.

Due to various factors, the concentrations of these gases have been increasing in our atmosphere, consequently elevating Earth's temperature.