This definitions covers Key Definitions within Greenhouse Effect for GCSE Chemistry. Revise Greenhouse Effect in Atmosphere for GCSE Chemistry with 20 exam-style questions and 12 flashcards. This topic appears less often, but it can still be a useful differentiator on mixed-topic papers. It is section 8 of 13 in this topic. Make sure you can use the exact wording confidently, because definition marks are often lost through vague language.
Topic position
Section 8 of 13
Practice
20 questions
Recall
12 flashcards
📖 Key Definitions
Greenhouse effect: The process by which greenhouse gases in the atmosphere absorb long-wave infrared radiation emitted by Earth's surface and re-emit it, warming the lower atmosphere and surface.
Greenhouse gas: A gas that absorbs and re-emits infrared radiation, contributing to the greenhouse effect. Main examples: CO₂, CH₄ (methane), H₂O vapour, N₂O (nitrous oxide).
Enhanced greenhouse effect: The intensification of the natural greenhouse effect due to increased concentrations of greenhouse gases from human activities, causing additional warming of the Earth.
Infrared radiation: Long-wave electromagnetic radiation emitted by warm objects. It is what we perceive as heat radiation.
Carbon footprint: The total amount of greenhouse gases, especially CO₂, produced by an individual, organisation, or activity, measured in tonnes of CO₂ equivalent.