MCQ Detailed View

Global warming refers to the gradual increase in the average temperature of the Earth’s atmosphere and oceans. One of the primary causes of this phenomenon is the greenhouse effect, which is a natural process that becomes intensified due to human activities.

The greenhouse effect occurs when greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, such as carbon dioxide (CO₂), methane (CH₄), nitrous oxide (N₂O), and water vapor, trap heat radiated from the Earth’s surface. Sunlight passes through the atmosphere and warms the Earth. The Earth emits this energy as infrared radiation, but greenhouse gases absorb and re-radiate part of this heat, preventing it from escaping into space. This trapped heat causes the Earth’s surface temperature to rise.

Human activities, such as burning fossil fuels, deforestation, and industrial processes, release additional greenhouse gases, intensifying the natural greenhouse effect. For example, CO₂ levels have increased significantly since the Industrial Revolution, enhancing global warming. Other human contributions, like methane from livestock and landfills, also add to this effect.

Comparing other options:

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  Fire in coal mines releases gases locally but is not a direct phenomenon driving global warming.

  
  


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  Dry farming refers to agriculture without irrigation and does not significantly affect global temperature.

  
  


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  Monsoon is a seasonal weather pattern, not a cause of global warming.

  
  

Understanding the greenhouse effect is crucial for environmental chemistry, climate science, and policy-making. It explains why certain regions experience rising temperatures, melting glaciers, rising sea levels, and extreme weather patterns. Controlling greenhouse gas emissions is key to mitigating global warming.

Therefore, the greenhouse effect is the phenomenon responsible for global warming.