Question

scientists have determined that global temperatures have risen each decade since 1850. this correlates to an increase in which gases in the atmosphere?
heavy metals and acid rain
argon and neon
greenhouse gases
oxygen and nitrogen

Explanation:

To solve this, we analyze each option:

1. "heavy metals and acid rain" – Heavy metals are not gases, and acid rain is a result, not a gas causing temperature rise. Eliminate.
2. "argon and neon" – These are noble gases, not linked to global temperature rise. Eliminate.
3. "greenhouse gases" – Greenhouse gases (e.g., CO₂, CH₄) trap heat, causing global warming. This matches the correlation with rising temperatures.
4. "oxygen and nitrogen" – These are major atmospheric gases but not linked to recent temperature rise from human activity. Eliminate.

Answer:

C. greenhouse gases (assuming the third option is labeled C; if the options are unlabeled by letter, the option with "greenhouse gases" text)