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The Greenhouse effect was discovered in 1824, but what is it?
Without the greenhouse effect, the earth would be a frozen ball in space.
While the majority of our atmosphere is oxygen and nitrogen, a small fraction consists of
greenhouse gases
such as, carbon dioxide, methane and nitrous oxide, 'as well' as other trace gases.
Water is also a significant greenhouse gas.
The greenhouse effect works like a blanket around the earth
by trapping heat radiated off the surface of the planet.
It's the same as putting on extra blankets or clothing.
By doing so you trap more heat inside the layers.
Since the beginning of the industrial age nitrous oxide (used in fertilizer) has increased
18%, CO2 from fossil fuel combustion, 39%,
and methane, 148%.
This warming is also increasing the temperature of the ocean, which evaporates more water.
By adding more greenhouse gases we have altered the natural cycle, and the earth is getting warmer.