This comparison covers Natural vs Enhanced Greenhouse Effect within Greenhouse Effect for GCSE Chemistry. Revise Greenhouse Effect in Atmosphere for GCSE Chemistry with 25 exam-style questions and 12 flashcards. This topic appears regularly enough that it should still be part of a steady revision cycle. It is section 7 of 14 in this topic. Use this comparison to connect the idea to the wider topic before moving on to questions and flashcards.
⚖️ Natural vs Enhanced Greenhouse Effect
| Aspect | Natural Greenhouse Effect | Enhanced Greenhouse Effect |
|---|---|---|
| Cause | Natural concentration of greenhouse gases | Human activities increasing gas concentrations |
| Effect | Earth +15°C (supports life) | Additional warming above natural level |
| CO₂ level | ~280 ppm (pre-industrial) | 420+ ppm (2024) |
| Outcome | Essential for life on Earth | Causing climate change, sea level rise |
| Timescale | Billions of years | Rapid — mainly last 200 years |
Practice questions for Greenhouse Effect
Which of these gases is NOT a greenhouse gas?
Explain why the natural greenhouse effect is important for life on Earth.
Quick recall flashcards
What type of radiation does Earth emit?
Long-wave infrared radiation (heat)
What are the three main greenhouse gases?
Carbon dioxide (CO₂), methane (CH₄), and water vapour (H₂O)