MCQ Detailed View

Greenhouse gases are compounds in the atmosphere that trap heat from the sun, helping to maintain Earth’s temperature. Common greenhouse gases include carbon dioxide (CO₂), methane (CH₄), and nitrous oxide (N₂O). These gases absorb infrared radiation and prevent heat from escaping into space, which is a natural process known as the greenhouse effect.

Methane is released from sources such as livestock, rice fields, and landfills. It is highly effective at trapping heat, even more than carbon dioxide per molecule, making it a potent greenhouse gas.

Nitrous oxide comes from agricultural activities, including fertilizers and soil management. It contributes to global warming and also affects the ozone layer.

Carbon dioxide is the most well-known greenhouse gas. It is released through the burning of fossil fuels, deforestation, and various industrial processes. CO₂ is the primary driver of anthropogenic climate change due to its high concentration in the atmosphere.

Hydrogen, however, is not considered a greenhouse gas. It is a very light and reactive element that does not absorb infrared radiation like CO₂, CH₄, or N₂O. While hydrogen can be used as a fuel and has environmental implications in terms of energy production, it does not directly contribute to the greenhouse effect.

Understanding which gases contribute to the greenhouse effect is crucial for environmental science and climate studies. It helps identify which pollutants to monitor and reduce to combat global warming and climate change.

Thus, the correct answer is Hydrogen (Option 4) because it does not act as a greenhouse gas.