Question

3
select the correct answer.
which statement best explains the greenhouse effect?
a. the burning of fossil fuels causes gases to mix with water vapor to form acid in the atmosphere.
b. aerosols and gases trap infrared radiation close to earth’s surface.
c. smog and industrial pollutants reflect thermal radiation into space.
d. ozone reacts with sunlight to cause warming in the atmosphere.

Explanation:

1. Option A describes acid rain formation from fossil fuel emissions, not the greenhouse effect.
2. Option B correctly defines the greenhouse effect: greenhouse gases and aerosols absorb and trap outgoing infrared (thermal) radiation from Earth's surface, keeping the planet warm.
3. Option C is incorrect because pollutants do not reflect thermal radiation into space to create the greenhouse effect; this would have a cooling effect instead.
4. Option D describes stratospheric ozone's role in absorbing UV radiation, not the greenhouse effect.

Answer:

B. Aerosols and gases trap infrared radiation close to Earth's surface.