CO₂ & CH₄ as Greenhouse Gases (AQA GCSE Chemistry): Flashcards

Absorb and re-emit heat energy in atmosphere

$CO_2$, $CH_4$, $H_2O$

About -18°C

+15°C

Short-wavelength radiation

Long-wavelength radiation (heat)

Long-wavelength radiation from Earth

Releases lots of $CO_2$ into atmosphere

Fewer trees to absorb $CO_2$ from air

Cows produce $CH_4$ when digesting grass

Bacteria decompose waste, producing $CH_4$ gas

$CH_4$ is 25x more powerful than $CO_2$

More heat trapped in atmosphere