Biology Graphs: Major Greenhouse Gases

The greenhouse gases trap heat in the atmosphere. The major greenhouse gases are water vapor, carbon dioxide, ozone, methane, nitrous oxide and chlorofluorocarbons. The name greenhouse gas relates to the idea that these gases act like a “Greenhouse” and keep the earth warm. Levels of certain greenhouse gases have risen in recent years and are expected to affect the earth’s “greenhouse” effect causing global warming. Fossil fuel burning increases carbon dioxide. Burning of nitrogen rich fuels like coal increases nitrous oxide.