Question

earths surface, the average temperature of earths surface is warmer than it would be if all the infrared radiation escaped into space.
based on the information above, which of the following statements are true? select all that apply.
once infrared radiation is absorbed by a greenhouse gas molecule, the infrared radiation can never leave earths atmosphere.
greenhouse gas molecules gain energy after absorbing infrared radiation.
earths average temperature is colder than it would be if earths atmosphere did not contain any greenhouse gases.
greenhouse gas molecules absorb and release infrared radiation.

Explanation:

• For the first statement: Infrared radiation absorbed by greenhouse gas molecules can eventually leave Earth's atmosphere. So this statement is false.
• For the second statement: When greenhouse gas molecules absorb infrared radiation, they gain energy. This is in line with the principles of energy transfer in the greenhouse effect. So this statement is true.
• For the third statement: The presence of greenhouse gases makes Earth's average temperature warmer than it would be without them. So this statement is false.
• For the fourth statement: Greenhouse gas molecules do absorb and release infrared radiation as part of the greenhouse - effect process. So this statement is true.

Answer:

B. Greenhouse gas molecules gain energy after absorbing infrared radiation.
D. Greenhouse gas molecules absorb and release infrared radiation.