Question

what is the greenhouse effect?
the cooling of earths atmosphere by greenhouse gases.
the process of plants growing in greenhouses.
the trapping of heat from the sun by gases in earths atmosphere.
the reflection of sunlight by earths surface.

Explanation:

The greenhouse effect is a natural process. Greenhouse gases (like carbon dioxide, methane) in Earth's atmosphere trap heat from the Sun. This is similar to how a greenhouse traps heat. It keeps the Earth warm enough to support life. The first option ("The cooling...") is incorrect as greenhouse gases don't cool. The second option is too literal (not about actual greenhouses for plants). The fourth option is about reflection, not trapping heat.

Answer:

The trapping of heat from the Sun by gases in Earth’s atmosphere.