O greenhouse effect it is a natural phenomenon that allows some of the solar energy that reaches the Earth to remain in the atmosphere, maintaining the appropriate global temperature for life on the planet.
O global warming it's the increase in the planet's average temperature due to the high accumulation of greenhouse gases. These gases block the passage of part of the solar energy reflected by the Earth, which goes back into the atmosphere.
The excess of greenhouse gases is mainly a consequence of the burning of fossil fuels and deforestation.
Summary of the greenhouse effect and global warming
To understand what global warming is, it is important to know what the greenhouse effect is and how it acts on our planet.
Greenhouse effect
The greenhouse effect is a natural phenomenon that occurs in the atmosphere due to greenhouse gas concentration. These gases allow solar energy to enter the Earth's atmosphere and be absorbed by the surface and oceans. However, not all energy is absorbed, as part of it is reflected back into space.
If all the planet's energy were reflected back to space, the Earth's atmosphere would be very cold, its temperature would be, on average, -18°C. In that case, life as we know it would be impossible and the surface would be covered by thick layers of ice.
On the other hand, if all the solar energy that entered the Earth were absorbed, the planet would become increasingly hotter, which would also make life impossible.
when there isbalance between absorbed and reflected solar energy, theEarth temperature remains constant. However, if there is any imbalance in this relationship, the global average temperature can change, causing environmental imbalances.
Global warming
Global warming is a consequence of these imbalances, caused by accumulation of greenhouse gases issued by man. Remembering that greenhouse gases are produced naturally, but become excessive by human action.
The intensification of the greenhouse effect blocks part of the sun's rays from being reflected, causing global warming.
The temperature average on the planet today is 15 ºC, 0.74 ºC higher than 100 years ago, and the highest in the last five centuries. Studies show that if emissions of these gases continue at the same rate, it is possible that the average temperature will rise between 2 ºC and 5.8 ºC in this century.
know more about global warming and greenhouse effect.
Causes of the intensification of the greenhouse effect and global warming
The emission of greenhouse gases has increased significantly in recent years, especially after the industrialization. Among the causes of the intensification of these gases in the atmosphere, the following stand out:
- The use of fossil fuels, which release carbon dioxide (CO2).
- The gases emitted in the application of fertilizers, in the treatment of animal waste and solid waste, in the treatment and disposal of waste and in the industrial processes of production of iron, steel, cement and aluminum.
- Forest degradation and deforestation, as plants are responsible for the absorption of carbon dioxide (CO2) of nature during the photosynthesis process.
Understand more about the logging, fossil fuel and photosynthesis.
Main greenhouse gases
carbon dioxide (CO2): emitted from burning fossil fuels (oil, coal and natural gas), it is the most abundant greenhouse gas (GHG) in the atmosphere. Its concentration in the atmosphere has increased about 35% since the beginning of the industrial age, surpassing the natural variation of the last 650,000 years.
Methane gas (CH4): resulting from the decomposition of organic matter, such as in dumps and landfills, from the cultivation of rice and from raising cattle. Its power to contribute to global warming is 21 times greater than CO2.
Nitrous oxide (N2O): emitted from the use of fertilizers, some industrial activities and the burning of fossil fuels. Has global warming potential, on average, 300 times greater than CO2.
Water vapor: present in abundance in the atmosphere, it is responsible for most of the greenhouse effect. Water vapor absorbs heat and raises temperatures, as the temperature rises, there is more water evaporation and, consequently, more steam.
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consequences of global warming
With the intensification of the greenhouse effect and the consequent increase in the average temperature of the air and oceans, the Earth will face various environmental imbalances. Here are some of the possible consequences:
- Species extinction and damage to ecosystems.
- Melting ice caps, with rising sea level and the submersion of coastal regions.
- Damaged fisheries and crops, increasing the food insecurity.
- Water shortage and the possibility of conflicts over natural resources.
- Health problems and increased epidemics.
- Increased possibility of natural disasters, such as hurricanes and floods.
See also the meaning of atmosphere and pollution.
