Üvegházgázok

Üvegházgázok is the Hungarian term for greenhouse gases. These are atmospheric gases that absorb and emit radiant energy within the thermal infrared range. This process is the fundamental cause of the greenhouse effect. The primary greenhouse gases in Earth's atmosphere are water vapor, carbon dioxide, methane, nitrous oxide, and ozone.

The greenhouse effect is a natural process that warms the Earth's surface. When the Sun's energy reaches the Earth's atmosphere, some of it is reflected back to space, and the rest is absorbed and re-radiated by greenhouse gases. If there were no greenhouse effect, the Earth's average surface temperature would be about minus 18 degrees Celsius (minus 0.4 degrees Fahrenheit), rather than the current 15 degrees Celsius (59 degrees Fahrenheit).

However, human activities have been increasing the concentration of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, leading to an enhanced greenhouse effect and global warming. The burning of fossil fuels like coal, oil, and natural gas for energy production, transportation, and industrial processes releases large amounts of carbon dioxide. Deforestation also contributes, as trees absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. Agricultural practices, such as livestock farming and rice cultivation, release methane, while the use of fertilizers can lead to nitrous oxide emissions.

The consequences of increased greenhouse gas concentrations and global warming are far-reaching, including rising sea levels, more frequent and intense heatwaves, changes in precipitation patterns, and impacts on ecosystems and biodiversity. International efforts are underway to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and mitigate the effects of climate change.