# Greenhouse effect

Gases such as carbon dioxide and methane trap heat in the atmosphere, keeping Earth warm. More of these gases causes extra warming, called global warming.

Chemistry (school) · Part 08: Carbon chemistry and the Earth · Card 9 of 10 · Last updated 2026-10-19

## Analogy

The gases are like a blanket around the Earth. A thicker blanket keeps more heat in.

## In practice

Burning fossil fuels adds carbon dioxide to the air, which has increased the average temperature of the Earth.

## Practice

### Flashcards

- **Name two greenhouse gases.** Carbon dioxide and methane.

### Interview questions

**Explain how burning fossil fuels affects the climate.**

- Burning releases carbon dioxide
- Carbon dioxide traps heat in the atmosphere
- More greenhouse gas means more warming
- This can raise sea levels and change weather

## Questions people ask

### Why is the extra greenhouse effect from humans a problem?

The natural greenhouse effect is essential. Without it, Earth would be about 33 degrees Celsius colder on average and mostly frozen. The problem is the extra warming caused by human activity adding more greenhouse gases than natural processes can remove. Carbon dioxide has risen from burning fossil fuels.

### How can we reduce carbon dioxide emissions?

Use less energy and switch to renewable sources like wind, solar and hydroelectric power. Plant trees, which absorb carbon dioxide. Improve public transport and use electric vehicles. Carbon capture schemes store carbon dioxide from power stations underground instead of letting it escape.

## Related concepts

- [Combustion](https://studyvisually.com/learn/science/chemistry-school/chemistry-school-part-8/chemistry-school-part-8-concept-8)

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