Chapter 21, Problem 31QP

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The greenhouse effect is to be defined and the criterion for a gas to be a greenhouse gas is to be explained.

Concept introduction:

The greenhouse effect is a process in which heat is trapped by the atmospheric gases present near the surface of the earth. The greenhouse has a roof of glass through which visible sunlight is transmitted and some of the outgoing infrared radiations are absorbed by the glass roof and heat is trapped.

The greenhouse effect is a process in which heat is trapped by the atmospheric gases near the surface of the earth. Most of the human activities, such as deforestation and burning of fossil fuels, are giving strength to greenhouse effect, which later leads to global warming.

Greenhouse gases are associated with the greenhouse effect. These types of gases absorb infrared radiation.

These gases must be IR active for which they must undergo a change in dipole moment.

Common examples of green house gases are carbon dioxide and ${\text{H}}_2\text{O}$. Other than these CFCs, ${\text{CH}}_{\text{4}}$, ${\text{NO}}_{\text{x}},\text{and}{\text{N}}_{\text{2}}\text{O}$ contribute appreciably to the warming of atmosphere.