What is the greenhouse effect?

The natural greenhouse effect is how the atmosphere works to absorb and reflect radiation to keep the Earth warm. The sun emits short wave radiation towards the Earth. The Earth's atmosphere absorbs this heat and then radiates long wave (infrared) radiation away from Earth. Greenhouse gases (Carbon dioxide, methane, nitrous oxide) act as a barrier in the atmosphere so they re- radiate some of this heat/long wave radiation, keeping it in the atmosphere. This is what maintains our warm climate so makes life possible on Earth. HOWEVER, the excess of greenhouse gases in the atmospere due to human activity like burning fossil fuels, means that too much of the sun's radiation is being kept in the atmosphere, rather than being reflected away so global warming is occuring. This is the human induced greenhouse effect.

JH
Answered by Josie H. Geography tutor

8924 Views

See similar Geography A Level tutors

Related Geography A Level answers

All answers ▸

With reference to two volcanic events that you have studied from contrasting areas of the world, compare the ways in which volcanoes and their hazards have been managed.


Outline 2 key controls on climate in the tropics


How can geographers help to tackle climate change?


Explain how the geography of California has led to the state's 'disaster hotspot' status.


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2025 by IXL Learning