Earth Science Terms

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Greenhouse Gases

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Gases that trap heat in the atmosphere, contributing to the greenhouse effect.

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Greenhouse Effect

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The process by which greenhouse gases absorb and re-radiate thermal energy, warming the Earth.

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Climate

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The long-term average of weather patterns in a particular area.

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Human

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A species that significantly influences the Earth's environment and climate.

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Absorption of Heat

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The process by which materials take in thermal energy.

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Atmospheric Heating

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The warming of the atmosphere due to the absorption of solar energy.

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Water Vapor (H2O)

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The gaseous form of water, a significant greenhouse gas.

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Carbon Dioxide (CO2)

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A greenhouse gas produced by burning fossil fuels and respiration.

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Methane (CH4)

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A potent greenhouse gas released from livestock, landfills, and natural gas.

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Nitrous Oxide (NO3)

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A greenhouse gas produced by agricultural activities and fossil fuel combustion.